# EDGAR Filing Document

**Accession Number:** 0001060822
**File Stem:** 0001193125-26-201479
**Filing Date:** 2026-5
**Character Count:** 91157
**Document Hash:** 9a34749a8453aa456d026a3f2acbf067
**Contains OCR:** False
**Source Format:** 

## Filing Content

## Filing Summary
**0001193125-26-201479.hdr.sgml**: 20260501

**ACCESSION NUMBER**: 0001193125-26-201479

**CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE**: 8-K

**PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT**: 16

**CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT**: 20260427

**ITEM INFORMATION**: Results of Operations and Financial Condition

**ITEM INFORMATION**: Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers: Compensatory Arrangements of Certain Officers

**ITEM INFORMATION**: Regulation FD Disclosure

**ITEM INFORMATION**: Financial Statements and Exhibits

**FILED AS OF DATE**: 20260501

**DATE AS OF CHANGE**: 20260501

**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** CARTERS INC
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0001060822
- **STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION:** APPAREL & OTHER FINISHED PRODS OF FABRICS & SIMILAR MATERIAL [2300]
- **ORGANIZATION NAME:** 04 Manufacturing
- **EIN:** 133912933
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** DE
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 0102

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** 8-K
- **SEC ACT:** 1934 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 001-31829
- **FILM NUMBER:** 26932776

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** PHIPPS TOWER
- **STREET 2:** 3438 PEACHTREE ROAD NE SUITE 1800
- **CITY:** ATLANTA
- **STATE:** GA
- **ZIP:** 30326
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** 678-399-1000

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** PHIPPS TOWER
- **STREET 2:** 3438 PEACHTREE ROAD NE SUITE 1800
- **CITY:** ATLANTA
- **STATE:** GA
- **ZIP:** 30326

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** CARTER HOLDINGS INC
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 19980430

?xml version='1.0' encoding='ASCII'? 8-K

### UNITED STATES

### SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

#### Washington, D.C. 20549

### FORM 8-K

#### CURRENT REPORT

#### Pursuant to Section 13 OR 15(d)

#### of The Securities Exchange Act of 1934

#### Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): April 27, 2026

## Carter's, Inc.

#### (Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Delaware** | **001-31829** | **13-3912933** |
| **(State or other jurisdiction**<br> **of incorporation)** | **(Commission**<br> **File Number)** | **(I.R.S. Employer**<br> **Identification No.)** |

---

#### Phipps Tower,

#### 3438 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1800

#### Atlanta, Georgia 30326

#### (Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)
(678) 791-1000

#### (Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the Registrant under any of the following provisions:

☐ Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)

☐ Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)

☐ Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

☐ Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Title of each class** | **Trading**<br> **Symbol(s)** | **Name of each exchange**<br> **on which registered** |
| Common stock, par value $0.01 per share | CRI | New York Stock Exchange |
| Series A Preferred Stock Purchase Rights |  | New York Stock Exchange |

---

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 ((§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 ((§240.12b-2 of this chapter).

Emerging growth company ☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 2.02.** | **Results of Operations and Financial Condition.**  |

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On May 1, 2026, in conjunction with the Chief Executive Officer transition matters described in Item 5.02 of this Current Report on Form 8-K, Carter's, Inc. (the "Company") issued a press release, which, among other things, reaffirmed the Company's first quarter and full-year fiscal 2026 outlook that was provided on February 27, 2026. A copy of the press release is being furnished as Exhibit 99.1 to this Current Report on Form 8-K and is incorporated herein by reference.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 5.02.** | **Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers; Compensatory Arrangements of Certain Officers.**  |

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*Appointment of Sharon Price John as Chief Executive Officer and President and Director* 

On May 1, 2026, the Company announced that the Board of Directors of the Company (the "Board") approved the appointment of Sharon Price John as Chief Executive Officer and President of the Company and a member of the Board, effective June 15, 2026 (the "Effective Date").

Ms. John, age 62, recently announced her intention to retire from her role as President and Chief Executive Officer of Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. ("Build-A-Bear") (NYSE: BBW), effective June 11, 2026, a role that she has held since March 2016. From May 2013 through March 2016, Ms. John served as Build-A-Bear's Chief Executive Officer, and she has served as a director on Build-A-Bear's Board of Directors since that time. From January 2010 through May 2013, Ms. John served as President of Stride Rite Children's Group LLC, a division of Wolverine Worldwide, Inc., which designs and markets footwear for children. From 2002 through 2009, she held positions of broadened portfolio and increased responsibility at Hasbro, Inc., a multinational toy and board game company, including as General Manager & Senior Vice President of its U.S. Toy Division from 2006 to 2008 and General Manager & Senior Vice President of its Global Preschool unit from June 2008 through 2009. Ms. John also founded and served as Chief Executive Officer of Checkerboard Toys, served as Vice President, U.S. Toy Division with VTech Industries, Inc., and served in a range of roles at Mattel, Inc. She started her career in advertising, overseeing accounts such as Hershey's and the Snickers/M&M Mars business. Until February 2025, Ms. John served on the Board of Directors of Jack in the Box Inc., a publicly-traded restaurant company. Ms. John will continue to serve as a non-independent director on Build-A-Bear's Board of Directors through Build-A-Bear's 2027 annual meeting of stockholders.

In connection with Ms. John's appointment, Ms. John and the Company executed an offer letter on April 27, 2026 (the "Offer Letter"). Pursuant to the Offer Letter, during Ms. John's employment with the Company, she will receive an initial base salary of $1,300,000 per year, and an annual cash bonus opportunity at target of 175%. Commencing in the Company's 2027 fiscal year, Ms. John will be eligible to receive annual equity awards with a target value of no less than $6,500,000, pursuant to the terms of the Company's shareholder-approved equity plan.

Pursuant to the Offer Letter, Ms. John will receive a sign-on equity grant with a grant date fair value of $6,500,000, with 40% of the grant to be in the form of time-based restricted shares and 60% in the form of performance-based restricted shares (collectively, the "Sign-On Equity"). The time-based restricted shares will vest in four substantially equal annual installments, with the first vesting date accelerated to March 2, 2027, and all remaining vesting dates consistent with the vesting schedule for the Company's other executive officers' 2026 equity awards. Subject to Ms. John's continued employment with the Company, the earned performance-based restricted shares will vest at the end of the three-year performance period (2026-2028) consistent with the vesting schedule for the Company's other executive officers' 2026 equity awards and will be based on the performance metrics that were set for other performance-based restricted shares awarded to the Company's executive officers earlier in fiscal 2026.

In the event of Ms. John's resignation for good reason or a termination by the Company without cause, occurring (a) prior to the first anniversary of the Effective Date, (i) the second tranche of the time-based restricted shares of the Sign-On Equity and (ii) the first tranche of the time-based restricted shares of Ms. John's annual equity grant in the 2027 fiscal year will be accelerated to Ms. John's termination date, or (b) on or after the first anniversary of the Effective Date but prior to the second anniversary of the Effective Date, (i) the third tranche of the time-based restricted shares of the Sign-On Equity and (ii) the second tranche of the time-based restricted shares of Ms. John's annual equity grant in the 2027 fiscal year will be accelerated to Ms. John's termination date. In the event that within two years following a change of control, the Company terminates Ms. John's employment other than for cause, or Ms. John resigns for good reason, the time-based restricted share awards then held by Ms. John will become fully vested.

------

Ms. John will also receive a special one-time cash bonus of $500,000 within 30 days of the Effective Date.

Ms. John is expected to enter into the Company's previously disclosed Severance Agreement and participate in the employee benefit plans and programs provided by the Company to other senior executives. Ms. John will be covered by any Company directors and officers insurance policies. Ms. John will also be subject to the Company's restrictive covenants included in the Severance Agreement, which include restrictions relating to non-competition and non-solicitation for 24 months after the termination date and protection of confidential information.

The description of the Offer Letter in this Item 5.02 is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Offer Letter, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.1 and incorporated herein by reference.

There are no family relationships, as defined in Item 401 of Regulation S-K, between Ms. John and any of the Company's executive officers or directors or persons nominated or chosen to become a director or executive officer. Ms. John has not engaged in any transaction with the Company during the last fiscal year, and does not propose to engage in any transaction, that would be reportable under Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K.

*Departure of Douglas C. Palladini as Chief Executive Officer and President and Director* 

In connection with the appointment of Ms. John, Douglas C. Palladini has departed the Company as Chief Executive Officer and President and resigned as a member of the Board, effective April 28, 2026. Mr. Palladini is eligible for separation payments and benefits provided upon a termination of employment without "cause" pursuant to his severance agreement. Following his separation, Mr. Palladini will continue to be subject to certain restrictive covenants, including non-competition and non-solicitation covenants.

*Appointment of Richard F. Westenberger as Interim Chief Executive Officer and President* 

On May 1, 2026, the Company announced the appointment of Richard F. Westenberger as Interim Chief Executive Officer ("Interim CEO") and President, effective April 28, 2026. Mr. Westenberger will serve as Interim CEO and President for the transition period leading up to Ms. John's start date and will continue to serve in his current role as Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer.

Mr. Westenberger, age 57, joined the Company in 2009 as Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, and was appointed Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer in March 2024, and Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer in May 2025. Mr. Westenberger previously served as Interim CEO from January 2025 to April 2025. Mr. Westenberger's responsibilities in his role as Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer include management of Carter's finance, enterprise risk management, information technology, real estate, strategic procurement, and internal audit functions. Prior to joining Carter's, Mr. Westenberger served as Vice President of Corporate Finance and Treasurer of Hewitt Associates, Inc. from 2006 to 2008. From 1996 to 2006, Mr. Westenberger held various senior financial management positions at Sears Holdings Corporation and its predecessor organization, Sears, Roebuck and Co., including Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer of Lands' End, Inc., Vice President of Corporate Planning & Analysis, and Vice President of Investor Relations. Prior to Sears, Mr. Westenberger was with Kraft Foods, Inc. He began his career at Price Waterhouse LLP, a predecessor firm to PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, and is a certified public accountant. Mr. Westenberger earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in Accountancy from the University of Notre Dame and his Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

In connection with his appointment as Interim CEO and President, Mr. Westenberger will be paid a monthly cash stipend of $110,000, which will be pro-rated based on his service as Interim CEO and President. Mr. Westenberger will also receive restricted stock awards in an amount of $300,000 pursuant to the Company's Amended and Restated Equity Incentive Plan on a quarterly basis (the "Westenberger Awards"), each vesting within one year of the grant date of the relevant Westenberger Award. The Westenberger Awards will be immediately vested in the event that Mr. Westenberger is terminated without cause or resigns for good reason prior to the applicable vesting date, or in the event of his death or disability prior to the vesting date, and will be pro-rated for partial service as Interim CEO and President during a quarter.

There is no arrangement or understanding with any person pursuant to which Mr. Westenberger was appointed as Interim CEO and President. There are no family relationships between Mr. Westenberger and any director or executive officer of the Company, and Mr. Westenberger is not a party to any transaction requiring disclosure under Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 7.01.** | **Regulation FD Disclosure.**  |

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The Company's press release regarding the matters described in Item 2.02 and Item 5.02 above is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1.

The information included in Item 2.02 and Item 7.01, including Exhibit 99.1 hereto, is being furnished and shall not be deemed "filed" for the purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that Section, nor shall it be incorporated by reference into any registration statement or other document filed by the Company pursuant to the Exchange Act or the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference in such a filing.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 9.01.** | **Financial Statements and Exhibits.**  |

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(d) Exhibits.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Exhibit**<br> **Number** | **Description** |
| 10.1 | [Offer Letter, dated April 27, 2026.](d112628dex101.htm) |
| 99.1 | [Press Release, dated May 1, 2026.](d112628dex991.htm) |
| 104 | The cover page from this Current Report on Form 8-K, formatted as Inline XBRL |

---

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#### Signature
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Carter's, Inc. has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| May 1, 2026 | CARTER'S, INC. | CARTER'S, INC. |
|  | By: | /s/ Antonio D. Robinson |
|  | Name: | Antonio D. Robinson |
|  | Title: | Chief Administrative & Compliance Officer, Corporate Secretary |

---

## Exhibit 10.1

**Exhibit 10.1**![LOGO](g112628g0501082114493.jpg)

April 27, 2026

Sharon P. John

Dear Sharon,

On behalf of the Board of Directors, we are excited to extend you this offer to become the next Chief Executive Officer & President of Carter's, Inc. (the "<u>Company</u>"), located at our Atlanta, GA headquarters, pursuant to the terms and conditions set forth in this offer letter ("<u>Offer Letter</u>") and in the Company's *Employee Success Guide*. This offer is contingent upon your submission of documentation establishing that you can legally work in the United States. You will be appointed to the Board of Directors of the Company (the "<u>Board</u>") upon your start date with the Company subject to the requirements of all applicable laws, including, without limitation, any rules or regulations of any exchange on which the common stock of the Company is listed. If your position as Chief Executive Officer & President of the Company is terminated by you or the Company for any reason, you agree to promptly resign from the Board and any committee thereof, unless requested otherwise by the Board.

<u>Start Date</u> 

Your start date will be June 15, 2026 ("<u>Start Date</u>").

<u>Reporting Relationship</u> 

You will report directly to the Board.

<u>Base Salary</u> 

Your base salary will be at an annual rate of $1,300,000 which will be paid in bi-weekly installments of $50,000 in accordance with the Company's regular payroll cycle, subject to all deductions for taxes and withholdings as required by law or policies of the Company. Your base salary will be reviewed by the Board or the Compensation and Human Capital Committee of the Board (the "<u>Committee</u>") at least annually for increase; provided, however, that your base salary may not be decreased without your prior written consent (other than a decrease in base salary that is applied proportionally to other executive officers' base salary). Your base salary in effect at any given time is referred to herein as "<u>Base Salary</u>."

<u>Bonus Potential</u> 

Your annual target cash bonus opportunity is 175% of your current Base Salary ("<u>Annual Bonus</u>"), and will not be pro-rated for 2026 based on your Start Date.

Your eligibility for an Annual Bonus is based on the metrics for attainment set forth by the Committee for the current fiscal year. Before you sign this Offer Letter, you will receive a copy of the metrics for the Annual Bonus for fiscal year 2026, which also apply to the Company's other executive officers. You must be employed with the Company at the time of payout to receive any approved Annual Bonus. You and the Company understand and agree that any Annual Bonus is subject to the achievement of applicable metrics for attainment (determined in the sole discretion of the Company), and that nothing in this Offer Letter constitutes a guarantee of any Annual Bonus at any time or of any amount.

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![LOGO](g112628g0501082114493.jpg)

<u>Annual Equity</u> 

Beginning with the 2027 fiscal year, you will be eligible for an annual equity grant. Subject to review and approval of the Committee, at the first quarterly Committee meeting in 2027, you will be eligible for a target award opportunity with a grant date value of no less than $6,500,000. The terms and conditions of any equity-based award, including the grant amount, grant date, type of award(s), vesting schedules and applicable performance metrics, will be determined by the Committee and set forth in the applicable award agreement(s) and subject to the terms of the Carter's Amended and Restated Equity Incentive Plan as in effect from time to time (the "<u>Plan</u>").

<u>Sign-On Equity</u> 

On, or as soon as reasonably feasible following your Start Date, you will be granted a one-time equity award with a grant date fair value of $6,500,000 (the "<u>Sign-On Equity</u>"). The Sign-On Equity is not prorated for your Start Date. The terms and conditions of the Sign-On Equity and any other equity-based award, including the grant amount, grant date, type of award(s), vesting schedules, and applicable performance metrics, will be determined by the Committee and set forth in the applicable award agreement(s) and subject to the terms of the Plan. You will receive a copy of the various financial and total shareholder return metrics for attainment, which the Company's other executive officers are subject to under the 2026-2028 performance-based restricted share award, before you sign this Offer Letter.

The Sign-On Equity will be split between 40% time-based restricted shares and 60% performance-based restricted shares. The number of shares granted will be determined by dividing the value of the grant by the closing price of a share of Company common stock on the date of the grant (rounded upwards as necessary to avoid vesting of partial shares). Subject to your continued employment, the time-based restricted shares of the Sign-On Equity will vest in four substantially equal annual installments, with the first vesting date accelerated to March 2, 2027, and all remaining vesting dates consistent with the vesting schedule for the Company's other executive officers' 2026 equity awards.

Subject to your continued employment with the Company, the earned performance-based restricted shares of the Sign-On Equity will vest at the end of the three-year performance period, December 30, 2028, consistent with the vesting schedule for the Company's other executive officers' 2026 equity awards.

<u>Equity Acceleration</u> 

In the event of your resignation for Good Reason or a termination by the Company without Cause, occurring (a) prior to the first anniversary of the Start Date, (i) the second tranche of the time-based restricted shares of the Sign-On Equity and (ii) the first tranche of the time-based restricted shares of your annual equity grant in the 2027 fiscal year shall be accelerated to your termination date, or (b) on or after the first anniversary of Start Date but prior to the second anniversary of the Start Date, (i) the third tranche of the time-based restricted shares of the Sign-On Equity and (ii) the second tranche of the time-based restricted shares of your annual equity grant in the 2027 fiscal year shall be accelerated to your termination date; provided, however, your right to receive such accelerated vesting is conditioned on your execution and timely return of an effective Release of

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![LOGO](g112628g0501082114493.jpg)

Claims (as defined in the Severance Agreement) to the Company. For the avoidance of doubt, the preceding vesting acceleration provisions shall not apply to any resignation for Good Reason or a termination by the Company without Cause occurring on or after the second anniversary of the Start Date. In the event that within two years following a Change of Control (as defined in the Severance Agreement), the Company terminates your employment other than for Cause, or you resign for Good Reason, the time-based restricted share awards then held by you shall become fully vested (to the extent not already then vested); provided, however, your right to receive such accelerated vesting is conditioned on your execution and timely return of an effective Release of Claims to the Company.

All terms of your equity awards are governed by the applicable award agreement(s) and the Plan.

<u>Sign-On Bonus</u> 

You will receive a special one-time sign-on cash bonus of $500,000 (the "<u>Sign-on Bonus</u>"), less all applicable withholdings and deductions, to be paid within 30 days of your Start Date. If your employment with the Company terminates prior to the first anniversary of your Start Date for any reason other than for Good Reason (as defined in the Severance Agreement) or a termination by the Company for Cause (as defined in the Severance Agreement), you will be required to reimburse the Company for the Sign-on Bonus. Your reimbursement obligation set forth in this paragraph shall be waived in its entirety upon the first anniversary of your Start Date. If you are required to repay your Sign-on Bonus pursuant to this paragraph, any such reimbursement shall be made on an after-tax basis, such that you are only required to repay the net amount actually received after all applicable withholdings and deductions, within 30 days of your employment termination date.

<u>Vacation</u> 

You will be eligible for four weeks of vacation per calendar year subject to the Company's vacation policies for senior executives as in effect from time to time. Your vacation will not be pro-rated for 2026 based on your Start Date.

<u>Benefits</u> 

At the Company, we offer a suite of valuable benefit offerings to meet the needs of our employees and their families. To participate in health and welfare benefits, <u>you must complete benefits enrollment within 30 days of your hire date</u> for benefits that are effective on your 31<sup>st</sup> day of employment. This 30-day enrollment window generally becomes available within a few days of your hire date, and you will enroll using your 6-digit Employee ID Number and date of birth. Benefits information, including your individual enrollment deadline, can be found in your new hire welcome letter/email, by logging into <u>CartersBenefitsCenter.com</u> or by calling the Benefits Center at 1-855-614-0186. You do not need to wait to receive new hire communications and are responsible for enrolling by your deadline regardless of whether communications are received. If you have questions about enrollment, call 1-855-614-0186 within 30 days of hire. If you do not act before the end of your 30-day window, your next opportunity to enroll or make changes to your benefits will be during the next available Annual Enrollment (unless you experience a Qualified Life Event as defined in the Summary Plan Description of The William Carter Company Welfare Benefit Plan). The benefit offerings are subject to the terms and conditions of the official program documents for each offering as in effect from time to time.

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![LOGO](g112628g0501082114493.jpg)

<u>Relocation</u> 

You will be eligible for relocation services in accordance with the terms of the Company's relocation program or of reasonable equivalency as determined by the Company in its discretion. Additional details are outlined in the accompanying program summary. To receive this service, you will be required to sign a separate Relocation Expense Repayment agreement.

<u>Legal Fees</u> 

The Company will reimburse you for up to $25,000 in reasonable legal and advisory fees incurred by you in connection with the execution of this document, subject to reasonable substantiation of such amounts.

<u>Outside Board Service</u> 

During your employment as Chief Executive Officer & President, you will be permitted to serve on one outside board of directors (or equivalent governing body) of a non-competing public company, subject to prior approval by the Board, which shall not be unreasonably withheld. Any such service must not, in the reasonable judgment of the Board, interfere with your duties and responsibilities to the Company or create a conflict of interest. The Company reserves the right to request that you resign from any outside board seat if circumstances change such that continued service is deemed inconsistent with the Company's governance practices or policies.

<u>Executive Work Product</u> 

From time to time you may notify the Company of inventions, innovations, improvements, developments, designs, books, publications, scripts and all similar or related information, in any media now known or hereafter devised, which do not relate to the Company's or any of its affiliates' actual or anticipated business, research and development or existing or future products or services and which are conceived, developed or made by you (or intended to be conceived, developed or made by you) while employed with the Company ("<u>Executive Work Product</u>"). The Company will in good faith promptly provide its written acknowledgement and approval of such Executive Work Product, not to be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed, you own all right, title and interest in, to and under such Executive Work Product. Any work by you related to any Executive Work Product (including any matters which may become Executive Work Product), in the reasonable judgment of the Board, must not interfere with your duties and responsibilities to the Company or create a conflict of interest.

<u>Severance & Restrictive Covenants</u> 

You have disclosed to the Company any and all prior contractual obligations, which are currently in effect, governing your services as an employee, independent contractor, consultant or otherwise for any third party.

If a third party asserts a claim, demand, allegation, or dispute against you alleging that your employment with the Company violates or potentially could violate any contractual agreement you are a party to, including, but not limited to, any restrictive covenant agreement, the Company will indemnify you for all costs incurred in defending and/or responding to any such claim, demand, allegation, or dispute, including any settlement amounts, damages, judgments, legal fees and expenses, fines and other costs. The Company shall select counsel reasonably acceptable to you and shall have the right to settle any such claim at its own cost.

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![LOGO](g112628g0501082114493.jpg)

This Offer Letter is subject to your contemporaneous execution and delivery of the "<u>Severance Agreement</u>" in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A, including the restrictive covenants contained therein.

<u>Indemnity; D&O Insurance</u> 

You will be subject to and covered by the by-laws of the Company, and any other agreement or procedure maintained by the Company with respect to indemnification, at all times during and following your employment, on a basis no less favorable than that of the Company's other officers and directors.

<u>Clawback Policy</u> 

You will be subject to any clawback or recoupment provisions as may be required pursuant to any applicable laws, government regulations, stock exchange listing requirements, or Company policies in effect from time to time, including the Company's Clawback Policy.

<u>At-Will Employment</u> 

You acknowledge and agree that this offer is not intended to create a contractual obligation of any kind, a promise on the part of the Company to employ you for any specified period of time, or a promise on your part to serve the Company for any specified period of time. Accordingly, you acknowledge and agree that your employment with the Company is at-will and either party can terminate the relationship at any time with or without Cause and with or without notice.

<u>Miscellaneous</u> 

This Offer Letter, together with the Severance Agreement to be entered into with you, constitutes the entire agreement between you and the Company regarding your employment with the Company and supersedes any oral or written employment or compensation agreements, term sheets or discussions between you and the Company or its affiliates.

You agree to comply fully with all policies and procedures in effect for employees and executives, in each case as they are currently in effect and as may be amended from time to time.

This Offer Letter will be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of Georgia without regard to conflicts of law principles.

Please acknowledge your receipt of this Offer Letter by signing below and returning the original, including the Severance Agreement to me no later than April 28, 2026. An additional copy is enclosed for your records.

Sharon, we are thrilled to welcome you to the Carter's family and look forward to your distinguished experience and knowledge leading the Company into an exciting new chapter.

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![LOGO](g112628g0501082114493.jpg)

Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions.

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| |
|:---|
|  Sincerely, |
| /s/ William J. Montgoris |
| Name: William J. Montgoris |
| Non-Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors |
| Carter's, Inc. |
| Acknowledged: |
| /s/ Sharon P. John |
| Name: Sharon P. John |
| Date: April 27, 2026 |

---

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![LOGO](g112628g0501082114493.jpg)

<u>Exhibit A – Severance Agreement</u> 

This Severance Agreement ("<u>Agreement</u>") is made as of April 27, 2026, (the "<u>Effective Date</u>"), by and between The William Carter Company (the "<u>Company</u>") and Sharon Price John (the "<u>Executive</u>").

WHEREAS, the Company has determined that given the key nature of the Executive's position, the interests of the Company will be best served by entering into an agreement with respect to certain aspects of the employment relationship and by providing the Executive the assurance of severance pay and benefits in the event that the Executive's employment is terminated in specified circumstances.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants herein and for other good and valuable consideration, the parties agree as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**1. Position and Duties**. During employment, the Executive shall serve as Chief Executive Officer & President of the Company and shall have the normal duties, responsibilities and authority of such position, subject to any limitations imposed by the bylaws of the Company and to the power of the Company's Board of Directors (the "<u>Board</u>") and other senior officers of the Company or its Company Affiliates to expand or limit such duties, responsibilities and authority and to override actions of Executive. Executive shall devote Executive's best efforts and Executive's full business time and attention (except for permitted vacation periods and reasonable periods of illness or other incapacity) to the business and affairs of the Company. Executive shall perform Executive's duties and responsibilities to the best of Executive's abilities in a diligent, trustworthy, business like and efficient manner.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**2. Base Salary and Bonus Opportunity**. During the term of Executive's employment hereunder, Executive's base salary shall be at an annual rate no less than the annual rate of base salary that was paid to the Executive during 2026 ($1,300,000). The Board may, in its discretion, increase Executive's base salary at such times and in such amounts as it determines but at no time shall Executive's base salary, in effect from time to time, be decreased. Base salary shall be payable by the Company in regular installments in accordance with the Company's general payroll practices. During the term of Executive's employment hereunder, Executive shall participate in the Company's Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Compensation Plan (the "<u>Bonus Plan</u>"), as in effect from time to time, in accordance with the terms of such Bonus Plan. Executive's target bonus shall be equivalent to a percentage of base salary that is no less than the percentage of base salary that was set as the Executive's target bonus for fiscal year 2026 (175%).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**3. Term and Termination**. The Executive's employment hereunder shall continue until terminated in accordance with this Section 3.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) The Executive's employment shall terminate automatically in the event of the Executive's death.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The Company may terminate the Executive's employment hereunder, upon notice to the Executive, in the event that the Executive becomes disabled during the Executive's employment hereunder. For purposes of this agreement, "disabled" means any illness, injury, accident or condition of either a physical or psychological nature and, as a result, is unable to perform substantially all of the Executive's duties and responsibilities hereunder (notwithstanding the provision of any reasonable accommodation) for one hundred eighty (180) days during any period of three hundred and sixty-five (365) consecutive calendar days. The Board may designate another employee to act in the Executive's place during any period of the Executive's disability (and such designation shall not constitute Good Reason, as such term is defined in Section 12). If any question shall arise as to whether during any period the Executive is disabled, the Executive may, and at the request of the Company shall, submit to a medical examination by a physician selected by the Company to determine whether the Executive is so disabled and such determination shall for the purposes of this Agreement be conclusive. If such question shall arise and the Executive shall fail to submit to such medical examination, the Company's determination of the issue shall be binding on the Executive.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The Company may terminate the Executive's employment hereunder (i) for Cause (as defined in Section 12) at any time upon notice to the Executive setting forth in reasonable detail the nature of such Cause, or (ii) at any time, without Cause, upon notice to the Executive.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) The Executive may terminate employment hereunder (i) for Good Reason (as defined and in accordance with the timing and procedural requirements set forth in Section 12) or (ii) without Good Reason at any time upon sixty (60) days' prior written notice, which notice period (or any portion thereof) may be waived by the Company without any further payment to the Executive.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**4. Payments and Benefits Upon Termination**.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) In the event of termination of employment, however so caused, the Company will pay the Executive (i) any base salary earned but not paid during the final payroll period of Executive's employment through the date of termination of employment (the "<u>Separation Date</u>"); (ii) pay for any vacation time earned but not used through the Separation Date, as reflected in Company records; and (iii) any business expenses incurred by the Executive but unreimbursed on the Separation Date, provided that such expenses and any required substantiation are submitted consistent with the terms of Company policy and that such expenses are reimbursable under Company policy (clauses (i), (ii) and (iii) together, "<u>Final Compensation</u>"). Other than business expenses described in Section 4(a)(iii) (which shall be paid in accordance with Company policy), Final Compensation shall be paid to the Executive (or the Executive's designated beneficiary or estate) within thirty (30) days following the Separation Date. The Company shall not have any further obligations to the Executive, except as set forth in Section 4(b) below.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) In the event that the Company terminates the Executive's employment other than for Cause (as defined in Section 12), or the Executive terminates employment for Good Reason (as defined in Section 12), in addition to Final Compensation, the Company will provide the Executive the following (clauses (i) through (iv), in the aggregate, the "<u>Severance Benefits</u>"), provided that the Executive meets all eligibility requirements for such Severance Benefits as set forth in this Agreement:

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) the Company will continue to pay the Executive base salary, at the same rate as was in effect on the Separation Date, for the period of twenty-four (24) months following the Separation Date. Subject to Sections 5 and 6 below, such payments shall be in the form of salary continuation, payable in accordance with the normal payroll practices of the Company for its executives, with the first payment, which shall be retroactive to the day immediately following the Separation Date, being due and payable on the Company's next regular payday for executives that follows the expiration of sixty (60) calendar days from the date the Executive's employment terminates.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) the Company will pay the Executive a pro-rata bonus for the fiscal year in which the Separation Date occurs, determined following the end of the fiscal year in which the Separation Date occurs. The amount of any such bonus shall be determined by multiplying the amount of the bonus that would have been paid to the Executive pursuant to the Company's Bonus Plan had the Executive remained employed for the full fiscal year (which determination shall disregard any individual performance goals which may have been set for Executive pursuant to the Company's Bonus Plan, and shall be based solely on the extent to which Company performance goals have been met) by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days the Executive was employed during the fiscal year in which the Separation Date occurs and the denominator of which is 365 (the "<u>Pro-Rata Bonus</u>"). The Pro-Rata Bonus will be payable at the time provided for, and in accordance with the provisions of, the Bonus Plan, but in no event earlier than January 1st or later than December 31st of the year following the year in which the Separation Date occurs.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) provided that the Executive and the Executive's dependents are eligible to continue participation in the Company's group medical plans following the date the Executive's employment terminates under the federal law commonly known as "COBRA" and elect to do so in a timely manner, then, until the earlier of (A) eighteen (18) months following the Separation Date, (B) the date the Executive becomes eligible for coverage under the medical plan of another employer, or (C) the date the Executive otherwise ceases to be eligible to continue participation in the Company's medical plan under COBRA, the Company will cover the employer potion of premiums for the coverage at the same rate as if the Executive remained an active employee of the Company. The premium contributions will be made directly to the Benefits administrator in this case, resulting in the Executive being charged a lower monthly rate for COBRA coverage.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) In the event that within two (2) years following a Change of Control (as defined in Section 12), the Company terminates the Executive's employment other than for Cause (as defined in Section 12), or the Executive terminates employment for Good Reason (as defined in Section 12) (such termination, a "<u>Qualifying Termination</u>") in addition to Final Compensation and the Severance Benefits provided pursuant to Section 4(b) of this Agreement, the Company will provide the Executive the following benefits ("<u>Additional Severance Benefits</u>"), provided that the Executive meets all eligibility requirements for such Additional Severance Benefits as set forth in this Agreement:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) the Company will continue to pay the Executive's base salary, at the same rate as was in effect on the Separation Date, for an additional period of twelve (12) months, following the completion of the salary continuation payments provided for in Section 4(b)(i) above. Subject to Sections 5 and 6 below, such payments shall be in the form of salary continuation, payable in accordance with the normal payroll practices of the Company for its executives;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**5. Conditions to Eligibility, Exclusivity of Benefits, Offset**.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) Any obligation of the Company to provide the Executive the Severance Benefits or the Additional Severance Benefits, in each case, is conditioned on (i) the Executive signing and returning to the Company (without revoking) a timely and effective release of claims in the form provided by the Company (which will be substantially similar to the form used for other senior executives) by the deadline specified therein, which in all events shall be no later than the fifty-third (53rd) calendar day following the date of termination (any such release submitted by such deadline, the "<u>Release of Claims</u>"), (ii) the Executive maintaining complete compliance with the Executive's obligations to the Company and its Company Affiliates during employment, including without limitation under Sections 8, 9, 10 and 11 of this Agreement, and (iii) the Executive's continued compliance with Executive's obligations to the Company and its Company Affiliates that survive termination of Executive's employment, including without limitation under Sections 8, 9, 10 and 11 of this Agreement. The Release of Claims required for Separation Benefits creates legally binding obligations on the part of the Executive and the Company therefore advises the Executive to seek the advice of an attorney before signing the Release of Claims. It is expressly agreed and understood that no Severance Benefits or Additional Severance Benefits shall be required to be paid or provided unless and until the foregoing Release of Claims requirement is satisfied. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, if the Release of Claims deadline straddles two calendar years, no Severance Benefits or Additional Severance Benefits shall be paid to the Executive until the second calendar year (with any missed Severance Payments or Additional Severance Benefits being paid to the Executive on the Company's first normal payroll date occurring in the second calendar year).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) In the event the Company determines after conclusion of Executive's employment, that Executive had engaged in any conduct that would constitute "Cause" as defined herein, or that clawback of Executive's Severance Benefits and/or Additional Severance Benefits is required pursuant to rules promulgated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and listing standards applicable to the Company, the Company may cease payment of all Severance Benefits and Additional Severance Benefits and shall likewise be entitled to the immediate forfeiture and recapture of all Severance Benefits and Additional Severance Benefits paid to the Executive prior to its discovery of the same. For the avoidance of doubt, if the Executive fails to satisfy the conditions for the receipt of the Severance Benefits, the Executive shall not be entitled to any Additional Severance Benefits hereunder.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The Executive agrees that the Severance Benefits and Additional Severance Benefits to be provided in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement are exclusive and the Executive acknowledges and agrees that the Executive will not be eligible to participate in or receive benefits under any other plan, program, or policy of the Company or any of its Company Affiliates providing for severance or termination pay or benefits, including but not limited to the Company's Severance Pay Plan. The Executive also agrees that the Severance Benefits and Additional Severance Benefits shall be reduced by any other payments or benefits to which the Executive is entitled under applicable law as a result of termination of employment, including without limitation any federal, state or local law with respect to plant closing, mass layoffs or group benefits plan continuation following termination or the like.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**6. 409A Compliance**.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) <u>Separation from Service</u>. For purposes of this Agreement, references to termination of employment, Separation Date (as defined in Section 4(a) of this Agreement), retirement, separation from service and similar or correlative terms mean a "separation from service" (as defined at Section 1.409A-1(h) of the Treasury Regulations) from the Company and from all other corporations and trades or businesses, if any, that would be treated as a single "service recipient" with the Company under Section 1.409A-1(h)(3) of the Treasury Regulations. A termination of employment for Good Reason or by the Company Without Cause under this Agreement is intended to satisfy the meaning of "involuntary separation from service" (as defined in Section 1.409A-1(n) of the Treasury Regulations).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) <u>Section 409A Exemption</u>. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, so much of the Executive's Severance Benefits and Additional Severance Benefits as does not exceed the "exempt amount" as hereinafter defined shall in no event be paid later than by December 31 of the second calendar year following the calendar year in which the involuntary separation from service occurs. For purposes of the immediately preceding sentence, the Executive's "exempt amount" means the lesser of (i) the Executive's total separation pay, if any, or (ii) the lesser of (A) two times the applicable limit under Section 401(a)(17) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as amended (the "<u>Code</u>") for the year in which the involuntary separation from service occurs, or (B) two times the Executive's annualized compensation determined under applicable Treasury Regulations by reference to the Executive's annual rate of pay for the calendar year preceding the calendar year in which the separation from service occurs. For purposes of the Treasury Regulations under Section 409A of the Code, each payment described in this Section shall be treated as a separate payment. Any amounts that exceed the exempt amount will be paid in accordance with the schedule of payments in Section 6(c).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) <u>Specified Employee</u>. If at the time of separation from service the Executive is a specified employee as hereinafter defined, any and all amounts payable in connection with such separation from service that constitute deferred compensation subject to Section 409A of the Code, as determined by the Company in its sole discretion, and that would (but for this sentence) be payable within six months following such separation from service, shall instead, to the extent required by Section 409A, be paid on the date that follows the date of such separation from service by six (6) months and one day. For purposes of the preceding sentence, the term "specified employee" means an individual who is determined by the Company to be a specified employee as defined in subsection (a)(2)(B)(i) of Section 409A of the Code. The Company may, but need not, elect in writing, subject to the applicable limitations under Section 409A of the Code, any of the special elective rules prescribed in Section 1.409A-1(i) of the Treasury Regulations for purposes of determining "specified employee" status. Any such written election shall be deemed part of this Agreement.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) <u>409A Compliance</u>. Notwithstanding any other provision hereunder, this Agreement and all compensation payments hereunder are intended to comply with the requirements of Section 409A, including the regulations, notices and exemptive provisions thereunder, and shall be construed and administered accordingly. In no event shall the Company have any liability relating to any payment or benefit under this Agreement failing to comply with, or be exempt from, the requirements of Section 409A.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**7. Effect of Termination**.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) Except as otherwise expressly provided in Sections 4(b)(iii) and 4(b)(iv) above or as may be required by applicable law, the Executive's participation in all employee benefit plans of the Company will terminate, in accordance with the terms of those plans, based on the Separation Date.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Other than the Severance Benefits and Additional Severance Benefits, the Executive shall have no further rights to any other compensation or benefits on or after the termination of employment.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) Provisions of this Agreement shall survive any termination of the Executive's employment if so provided herein or if necessary or desirable to fully accomplish the purposes of other surviving provisions, including without limitation the Executive's obligations under Sections 8, 9, 10 and 11 hereof.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**8. Confidential Information**.

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Company Affiliates. The Executive acknowledges and agrees that the Executive's obligations under this Agreement with respect to trade secrets shall remain in effect for as long as such information shall remain a trade secret under applicable law, and that the Executive's obligations with regard to Confidential Information shall remain in effect while employed by the Company and for three years after the Separation Date, regardless of the reason for termination of employment.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Executive shall deliver to the Company on the Separation Date, or at any other time the Company's Board of Directors may request in writing, all memoranda, notes, plans, records, reports, computer tapes and software and other documents and data (and copies thereof, including electronic copies), whether or not containing trade secrets or Confidential Information or Work Product, which Executive may then possess or have under Executive's control.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**9. Work Product**. Executive agrees that all inventions, innovations, improvements, developments, methods, designs, analyses, reports and all similar or related information which relate to the Company's or any of its Company Affiliates' actual or anticipated business, research and development or existing or future products or services and which are conceived, developed or made by Executive while employed with the Company ("<u>Work Product</u>") belong to the Company or such Company Affiliate. Executive hereby assigns and agrees to assign to the Company (or as otherwise directed by the Company) the Executive's full right, title and interest in and to all Work Product. Executive will promptly disclose such Work Product to the Company's Board of Directors and perform all actions reasonably requested by the Company's Board of Directors (whether during or after the Employment Period) to assign the Work Product to the Company and to otherwise establish and confirm such ownership.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**10. Non-Competition, Non-Solicitation, Non-Disparagement, Compliance**.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) Executive acknowledges that in the course of Executive's employment with the Company or its Company Affiliates Executive has become and will become in the future familiar with the trade secrets and other Confidential Information of the Company and its Company Affiliates and that Executive's services will be of special, unique and extraordinary value to the Company. Therefore, Executive agrees that, during Executive's employment and for a period of 24 months following the Separation Date, regardless of the basis or timing of termination (the "<u>Restricted Period</u>"), Executive shall not, directly or indirectly, provide services in a Restricted Capacity (as defined below) in the Restricted Territory (as defined below) to any person or entity with respect to any product or service of such person or entity which competes with any aspect of the Business of the Company or any of its Company Affiliates with respect to which Executive has had access to Confidential Information or customer goodwill as a result of Executive's employment or other association with the Company. Nothing herein shall prohibit Executive from being a passive owner of not more than one percent (1%) of the outstanding stock of any class of a corporation which is publicly traded, so long as Executive has no active participation in the business of such corporation.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) For purposes of this Agreement,

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. the "Business of the Company or any of its Company Affiliates" shall include the wholesale and
retail sale (including without limitation, electronic commerce) of children's apparel and related accessories;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. " <u>Restricted Territory</u> " means each state in the United States;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3. " <u>Restricted Capacity</u> " means the provision of services to a competitor of the Company which
is the same or comparable to the services the Executive provided to the Company or any of its Company Affiliates or in which the Confidential Information, trade secrets or customer goodwill which the Executive created or to which the Executive had
access during the Executive's employment with the Company or any of its Company Affiliates would give that competitor an unfair competitive advantage.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) During the Restricted Period, Executive shall not, directly or indirectly through another entity, (i) induce or attempt to induce any employee of the Company or any of its Company Affiliates to leave the employ of such person, (ii) solicit or encourage any independent contractor providing services to the Company or any of its Company Affiliates to terminate or diminish its relationship with them; or (iii) induce or attempt to induce any customer, supplier, licensee or other person having a business relationship with the Company or any of its Company Affiliates (the "<u>Service Recipients</u>") to cease doing business with the Company or such Company Affiliate or seek to persuade any such Service Recipient to conduct with any other person or entity any business or activity which is conducted or could be conducted with the Company; provided, however, that the restrictions in clause (iii) shall apply (A) only with respect to those Service Recipients who have been such at any time within the immediately preceding two year period or whose business has been solicited on behalf of the Company or any of its Company Affiliates within said two year period, other than by form letter, blanket mailing or published advertisement, and (B) only if the Executive had a business relationship with such Service Recipient as a result of the Executive's employment, or otherwise had access to Confidential Information as a result of the Executive's employment which would assist in the solicitation of such Service Recipient; and provided further that the restrictions in clauses (i) and (ii) shall apply only to employees and independent contractors who have provided services to the Company or any of its Company Affiliates within the two years preceding the Separation Date.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) <u>Non-Disparagement</u>. The Executive agrees that the Executive will not disparage the Company or any of its Company Affiliates, or any of their respective management, products or services and will not do or say anything that could reasonably be expected to disrupt the good morale of the employees of the Company or otherwise harm the business interests or reputation of the Company; provided, however, that nothing in this Agreement shall preclude the Executive from providing truthful testimony in any court or regulatory action or proceeding or otherwise making good faith statements in connection with legal investigations or other proceedings. The Executive understands and agrees that this restriction shall continue to apply during the Restricted Period, howsoever caused. The Company agrees to instruct its officers and directors (as such terms are used for purposes of Section16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) not to disparage the Executive; provided, however, that nothing in this Agreement shall preclude the Company from providing truthful testimony in any court or regulatory action or proceeding or otherwise making good faith statements in connection with legal investigations or other proceedings. The Company understands and agrees that this restriction shall continue to apply during the Restricted Period, howsoever caused.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) <u>Compliance</u>. The Executive agrees at all times during the pendency of the Executive's employment to comply with all state and federal laws, and conduct herself with the highest degree of fidelity to the Company, committing no acts of theft, embezzlement, misappropriation, insider trading or other forms of misconduct contrary to the interests of the Company.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**11. Enforcement of Covenants**. The Executive acknowledges that the Executive has carefully read and considered all the terms and conditions of this Agreement, including the restraints imposed upon her pursuant to Sections 8, 9, 10 and 11 hereof. The Executive agrees without reservation that each of the restraints contained herein is necessary for the reasonable and proper protection of the goodwill, Confidential Information, trade secrets, and other legitimate interests of the Company and its Company Affiliates; that each and every one of those restraints is reasonable in respect to subject matter, length of time and geographic area; and that these restraints, individually or in the aggregate, will not prevent her from obtaining other suitable employment during the period in which the Executive is bound by these restraints. The Executive further acknowledges that, were the Executive to breach any of the covenants contained in Sections 8, 9, 10 or 11 hereof, the damage to the Company would be irreparable. The Executive therefore agrees that in the event of the breach or a threatened breach by Executive of any of the provisions of Sections 8, 9, 10 or 11 hereof, the Company, in addition and supplementary to other rights and remedies existing in its favor (including pursuant to Section 3(c) hereof), may apply to any court of law or equity of competent jurisdiction for specific performance or injunctive or other relief in order to enforce or prevent any violations of the provisions hereof (without posting a bond or other security). The parties further agree that if, at the time of enforcement of Sections 8, 9, 10 or 11, a court shall hold that the duration, scope or area restrictions stated herein are unreasonable under circumstances then existing, the parties agree that the maximum duration, scope or area reasonable under such circumstances shall be substituted for the stated duration, scope or area and that the court shall revise the restrictions contained herein to cover the maximum period, scope and area permitted by law. The Executive agrees that the Restricted Period shall be tolled, and shall not run, during any period of time in which the Executive is in violation of the terms thereof, in order that the Company and its Company Affiliates shall have all of the agreed-upon temporal protection recited herein. No breach of any provision of this Agreement by the Company, or any other claimed breach of contract or violation of law, or change in the nature or scope of the Executive's employment relationship with the Company, shall operate to extinguish the Executive's obligation to comply with Sections 8, 9, 10 and 11 hereof.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**12. Definitions**. As used in this Agreement, the following terms shall have the meaning set forth below:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) "<u>Affiliate</u>" means with respect to any specified Person, any other Person which, directly or indirectly, through one or more intermediaries controls, or is controlled by, or is under common control with, such specified Person (for the purposes of this definition, "control" (including, with correlative meanings, the terms "controlling," "controlled by" and "under common control with"), as used with respect to any Person, means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management or policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by agreement or otherwise).

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) "<u>Carter</u><u>'</u><u>s</u>" means Carter's, Inc., a Delaware corporation.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) "<u>Cause</u>" means (a) conviction of Executive for a felony, or the entry by Executive of a plea of guilty or nolo contendere to a felony, (b) a material breach by Executive of Sections 8, 9, 10 or 11 of this Agreement, (c) the commission of an act of fraud or other act involving dishonesty which such act of dishonesty is materially injurious to the Company or any Company Affiliate, (d) the willful and continued refusal by Executive to substantially perform Executive's duties for the Company or any of its Company Affiliates (other than any such refusal resulting from Executive's incapacity due to mental illness or physical illness or injury), or gross negligence in the performance of such duties, after a demand for substantial performance is delivered to Executive by the Company's Board of Directors, or (e) the willful engaging by Executive in gross misconduct injurious to the Company or any of its Company Affiliates. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Executive's actions or omissions shall not constitute Cause under clauses (b), (c), (d), or (e) above unless the Company has provided Executive with written notice which sets forth in reasonable detail the specific circumstances alleged to constitute Cause and Executive has failed to cure such circumstances within thirty (30) days following receipt of such notice.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) "<u>Change of Control</u>" means (i) any transaction or series of related transactions in which any Person who is not a Company Affiliate, or any two or more such Persons acting as a Group, and all Affiliates of such Person or Persons, who prior to such time did not own shares of the Common Stock of Carter's representing fifty percent (50%) or more of the voting power at elections for the Board of Directors of Carter's, shall (A) acquire, whether by purchase, exchange, tender offer, merger, consolidation, recapitalization or otherwise, or (B) otherwise be the owner of (as a result of a redemption of shares of the Common Stock of Carter's or otherwise) shares of the Common Stock of Carter's or its subsidiaries (or shares in a successor corporation by merger, consolidation or otherwise) such that following such transaction or transactions, such Person or Group and their respective Affiliates beneficially own fifty percent (50%) or more of the voting power at elections for the Board of Directors of Carter's or the Company or any successor corporation, or (ii) the sale or transfer of all or substantially all the assets of either the Company or Carter's.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) "<u>Common Stock</u>" means the common stock of Carter's, Inc., a Delaware corporation, par value $.01 per share.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) "<u>Company Affiliate</u>" means Carter's, Inc. and its subsidiaries.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) "<u>Confidential Information</u>" means any and all information of the Company and its Company Affiliates, other than trade secrets, that is not generally known by others with whom they compete or do business, or with whom they plan to compete or do business and any and all information, publicly known in whole or in part or not, which, if disclosed by the Company or any of its Company Affiliates would assist in competition against them. Confidential Information includes without limitation such information relating to (i) the development, research, testing, manufacturing, marketing and financial activities of the Company and its Company

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Affiliates, (ii) the products and services offered by the Company or any of its Company Affiliates, (iii) the costs, sources of supply, financial performance and strategic plans of the Company and its Company Affiliates, (iv) the identity and special needs of the customers of the Company and its Company Affiliates and (v) the people and organizations with whom the Company and its Company Affiliates have business relationships and the nature and substance of those relationships. Confidential Information also includes information that the Company or any of its Company Affiliates has received, or may receive hereafter, belonging to others or which was received by the Company or any of its Company Affiliates with any understanding, express or implied, that it would not be disclosed.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h) "<u>Good Reason</u>" means, unless Executive shall have consented in writing thereto, any of the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) a material reduction in Executive's title, base salary and target annual incentive compensation opportunity (other than a reduction in such compensation that is applied proportionally to other executive officers' compensation), duties, or responsibilities, as compared to such title, base salary and target annual incentive compensation opportunity, duties, or responsibilities on the Effective Date;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) a material change in the geographic location at which the Executive must perform services (provided, that for the avoidance of doubt, any change in location within the greater Atlanta metropolitan area shall not be a material change); or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) any material breach of this Agreement by the Company;

provided, however, that Executive shall not have the right to terminate Executive's employment for "Good Reason" unless Executive shall have given thirty (30) days prior written notice to the Board of Directors of the Company within thirty (30) days following the first occurrence (for the Executive) of such condition in which Executive sets forth in reasonable detail the circumstances that Executive believes constitute "Good Reason" pursuant to the preceding clauses (i) through (iii) and the Company shall not have remedied the matter within said thirty (30) day period; it shall not constitute "Good Reason" unless the Executive separates from service not later than ninety (90) days following the end of the Company's thirty (30) day cure period; and provided, further, however that the fact that the Company does or does not so remedy said matter shall not be deemed an admission by the Company that such circumstances constitute "Good Reason".

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) "<u>Group</u>" means any two or more Persons who, directly or indirectly, through any contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship or otherwise, act as a partnership, limited partnership, syndicate or other group for the purpose of acquiring or holding securities of the Company or its Company Affiliates.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(j) "<u>Person</u>" means any individual, partnership, corporation, association, limited liability company, trust, joint venture, unincorporated organization or entity, or any government, governmental department or agency or political subdivision thereof.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**13. Withholding**. Payments by the Company under this Agreement shall be reduced by all taxes and other amounts which the Company is required to withhold under applicable law.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**14.** Miscellaneous

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) This Agreement is not a contract of employment for a definite term and does not otherwise restrict the Executive's right, or that of the Company, to terminate the Executive's employment, with or without notice or Cause.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior communications, agreements and understandings, written or oral, with respect thereto; provided, however, that this Agreement shall not supersede or otherwise terminate any effective assignment the Executive has made of any invention or other intellectual property to the Company or any of its Company Affiliates on or before the date of execution of this Agreement; nor shall this Agreement supersede or otherwise terminate any rights or remedies of the Company or any of its Company Affiliates arising from the Executive's obligations pursuant to any agreement with respect to confidentiality, non-competition, non-solicitation or the like in effect prior to the date of execution of this Agreement or under applicable law, all of which assignments and rights shall remain in full force and effect.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) No modification or amendment of this Agreement shall be valid unless in writing and signed by the Executive and a duly authorized representative of the Company. The headings and captions in this Agreement are for convenience only and in no way define or describe the scope or content of any provision of this Agreement. This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be an original and all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) Neither the Company nor the Executive may make any assignment of this Agreement or any interest in it, by operation of law or otherwise, without the prior written consent of the other; provided, however, that in the event that the Company shall hereafter affect a reorganization, consolidate with, or merge into any entity or transfer all or substantially all of its properties or assets to any entity, the Company may assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement to such entity. This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon the Executive and the Company, and each of their respective successors, executors, administrators, heirs and permitted assigns.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**15. Choice of Law**. This Agreement will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Georgia, without giving effect to any choice or conflict of law provision or rule (whether of the State of Georgia or any other jurisdiction) that would cause the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction. By executing this Agreement, the parties hereby irrevocably submit to the jurisdiction of the state and federal courts located in the State of Georgia for the purpose of any action or dispute between the parties to this Agreement arising in whole or in part under or in connection with this Agreement or the subject matter of this Agreement (other than an action brought to enforce a judgment by any such court), hereby waive and agree not to assert any defense that venue in such courts is improper, invalid or inconvenient (or any similar defense) and agree not to commence any action or dispute arising in whole or in part under or in connection with this Agreement in any court other than the above-named Georgia courts.

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been executed as a sealed instrument by the Company, by a duly authorized representative, and by the Executive, as of the Effective Date.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  THE EXECUTIVE: | THE COMPANY: | THE COMPANY: |
|  | By: |  |
|  Sharon Price John |  | Name: |
|  |  | Title: |

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## Exhibit 99.1

**Exhibit 99.1**![LOGO](g112628g0501082114856.jpg)

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| |
|:---|
|  **Contact:** |
|  T.C. Robillard<br> Vice President, Investor Relations<br> tc.robillard@carters.com |

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**Carter's, Inc. Appoints Brand and Retail Veteran Sharon Price John as Chief Executive Officer and President** 

*Company Reaffirms First Quarter and Full-Year Fiscal 2026 Outlook* 

ATLANTA, May 1, 2026 – Carter's, Inc. ("Carter's" or the "Company") (NYSE:CRI), North America's largest and most-enduring apparel company exclusively for babies and young children, today announced the appointment of Sharon Price John as Chief Executive Officer and President, effective June 15, 2026. Ms. John will also be appointed as a member of the Carter's Board of Directors on the effective date.

Richard F. Westenberger has been appointed interim Chief Executive Officer and President in addition to his responsibilities as Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer and will serve in this capacity during the transition period until Ms. John joins the Company next month.

Ms. John will join Carter's following the conclusion of her successful 13-year tenure as Chief Executive Officer and President of Build-A-Bear Workshop ("Build-A-Bear") (NYSE: BBW), which was recently announced. Ms. John led Build-A-Bear through a transformational period of improved profitability and growth. Over her tenure, Ms. John diversified the business model beyond traditional malls, accelerated e-commerce with an integrated omnichannel focus, expanded the company's addressable market to gifting and collectors, and extended into content-led marketing. Under Ms. John's leadership, Build-A-Bear was reimagined from both a consumer-facing and infrastructure perspective, while the company navigated retail headwinds and a global pandemic to deliver significant shareholder returns and the fifth consecutive year of record results in 2025.

Prior to joining Build-A-Bear, Ms. John held a number of executive positions, including President of Stride Rite Children's Group, General Manager and Senior Vice President of Hasbro's Global Playskool business, and worked at Mattel as the Vice President of International Marketing for the Disney business unit and as a Director of the Barbie brand.

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Gretchen W. Schar, incoming Non-Executive Chair of Carter's Board of Directors, said: "Sharon has a distinguished track record as a public company CEO and brings substantial and relevant experience in the children's space. Her success in revitalizing Build-A-Bear gives us confidence in her ability to accelerate the work underway at Carter's and leverage the power of our iconic brands to drive sustainable growth and shareholder value creation. Carter's is showing solid momentum and we believe Sharon is the perfect fit to lead the Company into the future."

Ms. John added, "For over 160 years, Carter's has been a trusted resource as generations of young parents have made this brand their first choice in clothing for the many amazing moments in the life of a child. I am delighted to be joining a company with such a proud history and honored to be entrusted with leading it forward at this pivotal moment. As the leader in young children's apparel, Carter's enjoys rich brand equity with consumers and is trusted for the quality, style, and value of its products. We will remain focused on ensuring that Carter's continues to meet the evolving needs of today's families and caregivers."

In connection with Ms. John's appointment and effective immediately, Douglas C. Palladini has departed the Company as Chief Executive Officer and President, and as a member of the Board of Directors.

William J. Montgoris, outgoing Non-Executive Chair of the Board, commented, "On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Doug for his contributions to Carter's during a pivotal year of reset and regained momentum in the business. At the Board's direction, Doug led a series of initiatives to help Carter's manage the onset of record tariffs, streamline the organization structure, and improve the quality and productivity of our retail store fleet. We believe it is the right time to transition Carter's leadership. We sincerely appreciate Doug's contributions and wish him all the best in his next chapter."

The Company today also reaffirmed its first quarter and full-year fiscal 2026 outlook that was provided on February 27, 2026. As announced this week, Carter's will report its results for the first quarter and hold a call with investors and analysts on Wednesday, May 6, 2026.

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**About Carter's, Inc.** 

Carter's, Inc. is North America's largest and most-enduring apparel company exclusively for babies and young children. The Company's core brands are *Carter's* and *OshKosh B'gosh*, iconic and among the sector's most trusted names. These brands are sold through more than 1,000 Company-operated stores in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and online at www.carters.com, www.oshkosh.com, www.cartersoshkosh.ca, and www.carters.com.mx. Carter's also is the largest supplier of baby and young children's apparel to North America's biggest retailers. The Company's *Child of Mine* brand is available exclusively at Walmart, its *Just One You* brand is available at Target, and its *Simple Joys* brand is available on Amazon.com. The Company's emerging brands include *Little Planet*, crafted with organic fabrics and sustainable materials, *Otter Avenue*, a toddler-focused apparel brand, and *Skip Hop*, baby essentials from tubs to toys. Carter's is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Additional information may be found at www.carters.com.

**Forward Looking Statements** 

Statements in this press release that are not historical fact and use predictive words such as "estimates", "outlook", "guidance", "expect", "believe", "intend", "designed", "target", "plans", "may", "will", "are confident" and similar words are forward-looking statements (as such term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995). These forward-looking statements and related assumptions involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and outcomes to differ materially from any forward-looking statements or views expressed in this press release. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those disclosed in Part I, Item 1A. "Risk Factors" of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2026, and otherwise in our reports and filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as well as the following factors: changes in global economic and financial conditions, and the resulting impact on consumer confidence and consumer spending, as well as other changes in consumer discretionary spending habits; risks related to public health crises; risks related to the organizational restructuring plan, including, but not limited to, our ability to achieve the expected savings from the plan and to fully implement the plan; risks related to consumer tastes and preferences, as well as fashion trends; the failure to protect our intellectual property; the diminished value of our brands, potentially as a result of negative publicity or unsuccessful branding and marketing efforts; delays, product recalls, or loss of revenue due to a failure to meet our quality standards; risks related to uncertainty regarding the future of international trade agreements and the United States' position on international trade, as well as significant political, trade, and regulatory developments and other circumstances beyond our

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control; the roll-back of incremental tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (the "incremental tariffs") and any additional actions taken in response to their roll-back, including, but not limited to, tariffs imposed pursuant to Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 (the "122 tariffs") and potential tariffs imposed under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974; our ability to recover refunds of incremental tariff amounts or other tariff amounts paid; increased competition in the marketplace; ongoing political and economic conflicts that could impact our global and domestic operations, including, but not limited to, the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran; financial difficulties for one or more of our major customers; identification of locations and negotiation of appropriate lease terms for our retail stores; distinct risks facing our eCommerce business; failure to forecast demand for our products and our failure to manage our inventory; increased margin pressures, including increased cost of materials and labor and our inability to successfully increase prices to offset these increased costs; continued inflationary pressures with respect to labor and raw materials and global supply chain constraints that have, and could continue, to affect freight, transit, and other costs; fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; unseasonable or extreme weather conditions; risks associated with corporate responsibility issues; our foreign sourcing arrangements; a relatively small number of vendors supply a significant amount of our products; disruptions in our supply chain, including increased transportation and freight costs; our ability to effectively source and manage inventory; problems with our Braselton, Georgia distribution facility; pending and threatened lawsuits; a breach of our information technology systems and the loss of personal data or a failure to implement new information technology systems successfully; unsuccessful expansion into international markets; failure to comply with various laws and regulations; failure to properly manage strategic initiatives; retention of key individuals; acquisition and integration of other brands and businesses; failure to achieve sales growth plans and profitability objectives to support the carrying value of our intangible assets; our continued ability to meet obligations related to our debt; changes in our tax obligations, including additional customs, duties or tariffs; our continued ability to declare and pay a dividend; volatility in the market price of our common stock; and the cost or effort required for our shareholders to bring certain claims or actions against us, as a result of our designation of the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware as the sole and exclusive forum for certain types of actions and proceedings. Except for any ongoing obligations to disclose material information as required by federal securities laws, the Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. The inclusion of any statement in this press release does not constitute an admission by the Company or any other person that the events or circumstances described in such statement are material.