# EDGAR Filing Document

**Accession Number:** 0000764180
**File Stem:** 0000764180-26-000073
**Filing Date:** 2026-5
**Character Count:** 33357
**Document Hash:** dafde5be06a7003a31337564c1feb035
**Contains OCR:** False
**Source Format:** 

## Filing Content

## Filing Summary
**0000764180-26-000073.hdr.sgml**: 20260518

**ACCESSION NUMBER**: 0000764180-26-000073

**CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE**: 8-K

**PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT**: 13

**CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT**: 20260513

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

**ITEM INFORMATION**: Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

**ITEM INFORMATION**: Financial Statements and Exhibits

**FILED AS OF DATE**: 20260518

**DATE AS OF CHANGE**: 20260518

**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** ALTRIA GROUP, INC.
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0000764180
- **STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION:** CIGARETTES [2111]
- **ORGANIZATION NAME:** 04 Manufacturing
- **EIN:** 133260245
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** VA
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 1231

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** 8-K
- **SEC ACT:** 1934 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 001-08940
- **FILM NUMBER:** 26994267

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 6601 WEST BROAD STREET
- **CITY:** RICHMOND
- **STATE:** VA
- **ZIP:** 23230
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** (804) 274-2200

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 6601 WEST BROAD STREET
- **CITY:** RICHMOND
- **STATE:** VA
- **ZIP:** 23230

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** ALTRIA GROUP INC
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 20030127

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES INC
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 19920703

?xml version='1.0' encoding='ASCII'? mo-20260513

**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): May 13, 2026**

**________________________________________________________________________________________________________________**

**ALTRIA GROUP, INC.** 

**(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)** 

**______________________________________________________________________________________________________________**

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Virginia** | **1-08940** | **13-3260245** |
| **(State or other jurisdiction<br>of incorporation)** | **(Commission File Number)** | **(I.R.S. Employer<br>Identification No.)** |

---

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **6601 West Broad Street,** | **Richmond,** | **Virginia** | **23230** |
| **(Address of principal executive offices)** | | | **(Zip Code)** |

---

**Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (804) 274-2200** 

**_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________**

**(Former name or former address, if changed since last report.)**

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:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Title of each class&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;  | Trading Symbols | Name of each exchange on which registered |
| Common Stock, $0.33 1/3 par value | MO | New York Stock Exchange |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;2.200% Notes due 2027 | MO27 | New York Stock Exchange |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;3.125% Notes due 2031 | MO31 | New York Stock Exchange |

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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 provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. □

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**Item 5.02.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers; Compensatory Arrangements of Certain Officers.**

*Compensation of New Chief Executive Officer and New Chief Financial Officer*

As previously reported, Salvatore Mancuso was elected Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") of Altria Group, Inc. ("Altria") effective upon the conclusion of Altria's Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on May 14, 2026 (the "Annual Meeting"). As a result of his election, Mr. Mancuso became a salary band A employee. On May 13, 2026, the Compensation and Talent Development Committee of Altria's Board of Directors (the "Compensation Committee") set his annual base salary as of May 14, 2026 at $1,350,000. Also in connection with his election, the Compensation Committee approved for Mr. Mancuso a grant of 40,634 restricted stock units ("RSUs") and 37,246 performance stock units ("PSUs"). The RSUs and any PSUs earned will vest on May 15, 2031, five years after the grant date. The actual number of PSUs that will be earned will range between 0% and 200% of target, depending on actual performance during the 2026 - 2028 performance period. Effective May 14, 2026 as a salary band A employee, Mr. Mancuso's annual incentive award plan target is 175% of base salary and his annual equity award target is $8.5 million. Additionally, his Long-Term Incentive Plan ("LTIP") award target for the 2024 – 2026 plan is 260% of salary. His LTIP award targets for the 2025 – 2027 and 2026 – 2028 plans are $4.0 million and $4.0 million, respectively. The award targets were established by the Compensation Committee for salary band A employees at the beginning of each performance period. The awards under the annual incentive award plan and the LTIP will be pro-rated based on his time in each salary band, and, in the case of the 2024 – 2026 LTIP, his salary, during the performance periods. The Compensation Committee also approved an allowance of $125,000 for the period from May 14, 2026 to December 31, 2026 for Mr. Mancuso's personal use of Altria aircraft. The Compensation Committee considered the potential value of Mr. Mancuso's personal aircraft usage in determining the other components of his total compensation. Altria will also provide Mr. Mancuso upgrades and monitoring for his residential security system in addition to cybersecurity monitoring.

Also as previously reported, Heather A. Newman was elected Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Altria effective upon the conclusion of the Annual Meeting. As a result of her election, Ms. Newman became a salary band B employee. On May 13, 2026, the Compensation Committee set her annual base salary as of May 14, 2026 at $800,000. As a salary band B employee, Ms. Newman's annual incentive award plan target is 100% of base salary and her annual equity award target is $2.25 million. Additionally, her LTIP award target for the 2024 – 2026 plan is 140% of salary. Her LTIP award targets for the 2025 – 2027 and 2026 – 2028 plans are $1.25 million and $1.5 million, respectively. The award targets were established by the Compensation Committee for salary band B employees at the beginning of each performance period. The awards under the annual incentive award plan and the LTIP will be pro-rated based on her time in each salary band, and, in the case of the 2024 – 2026 LTIP, her salary, during the performance periods.

*Retirement Arrangements with Former CEO*

As previously reported, William F. Gifford, Jr. retired as Altria's CEO effective upon the conclusion of the Annual Meeting. On May 13, 2026 the Compensation Committee approved a payment under the annual incentive award plan of $995,822, reflecting his award target of 175% of his salary on March 1, 2026, pro-rated through May 14, 2026. The Compensation Committee also approved pro-rated payments under the 2024 – 2026 and 2025 – 2027 LTIPs that will be based on a company performance rating using Altria's actual business performance for each three-year performance cycle, as determined by the Compensation Committee after the conclusion of each applicable cycle in 2027 and 2028. His pro-rated award target for the 2024 – 2026 LTIP is $3,030,284 and for the 2025 – 2027 LTIP is $1,822,831. There is no guarantee of any payment under the 2024 – 2026 LTIP or 2025 – 2027 LTIP, which, if earned, will be made following the end of the applicable performance cycle and pro-rated through May 14, 2026. Under the terms of the applicable award agreements, Mr. Gifford will forfeit all his unvested RSU and PSU awards, specifically those granted in 2024 and 2025, immediately upon his retirement. Mr. Gifford did not receive an annual equity award in 2026. Additionally, under the terms of the 2026 – 2028 LTIP, Mr. Gifford forfeited eligibility for payment.

On May 13, 2026, the Compensation Committee approved cash payments to Mr. Gifford for (i) his unvested 2024 RSU award (88,718 RSUs) and unvested 2025 RSU award (84,433 RSUs) and (ii) his unvested 2024 PSU award (85,883 PSUs) and unvested 2025 PSU award (81,107 PSUs), in each case pro-rated for the period that Mr. Gifford worked during the applicable vesting periods. The values of the RSU payments will be determined using the average closing price of Altria's common stock on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") on each of the 20 trading days immediately preceding and including May 14, 2026. The values of the PSU payments will be determined based on the closing price of Altria's common stock on the NYSE on the day before the vest date, adjusted by the PSU performance rating as determined by the Compensation Committee after the conclusion of each three-year performance cycle ending in 2026 and 2027. The cash payment for the RSUs will be made in the fourth quarter of 2026; the payments for the PSUs, if any, will be made after the conclusion of the applicable performance cycles ending in 2026 and 2027. Based on the average closing price of Altria's common stock on the NYSE on each of the 20 trading days immediately preceding and including May 14, 2026, the aggregate cash payment for the RSUs is $6,859,062 and the aggregate cash payment for the PSUs at a target business performance, which also includes target dividend equivalents, is $7,837,712. The final values of the PSU payments will be determined at a later date based on the valuation methods noted above and Altria's

------

actual business performance. Mr. Gifford will also be entitled to payments and benefits generally available to employees under the terms of Altria's benefit plans.

The foregoing treatment is consistent with the Guidelines on Compensation Treatment for Departing Executive Officers, adopted by the Compensation Committee in 2021, as described in the "Compensation Discussion and Analysis" section of Altria's proxy statement for its 2021 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") on April 8, 2021). Altria's annual incentive award program and other executive compensation programs are more fully described in the "Compensation Discussion and Analysis" section of Altria's proxy statement for the Annual Meeting (filed with the SEC on April 2, 2026). Mr. Gifford will remain subject to the restrictive covenants and other terms of the Confidentiality and Non-Competition Agreement between Altria and Mr. Gifford with the 18-month post-employment restriction period referenced in paragraphs 6 and 7 of that agreement commencing upon the expiration or earlier termination of the Consulting Agreement described below. A copy of the form of the Confidentiality and Non-Competition Agreement was filed previously as Exhibit 10.3 to Altria's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2026.

In addition, in connection with Mr. Gifford's retirement, the aircraft time sharing agreement, dated February 23, 2023 (the "Time Sharing Agreement") between Mr. Gifford and Altria Client Services LLC has been terminated effective May 14, 2026. A copy of the Time Sharing Agreement was filed previously as Exhibit 10.44 to Altria's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025.

*Consulting Agreement with Former CEO* 

Mr. Gifford will serve as a consultant to Altria and its Board of Directors following his retirement to help facilitate an effective CEO and CFO transition and as a resource to the Board Directors and the executive leadership team. Pursuant to the Consulting Agreement, dated May 15, 2026, between Mr. Gifford and Altria, Mr. Gifford will provide consulting services from May 15, 2026 through December 31, 2026, unless terminated earlier as set forth in the Consulting Agreement, and will be compensated for his services as a consultant at a rate of $250,000 per month, through December 31, 2026. The monthly payment for May 2026 will be pro-rated. Mr. Gifford will not receive any other compensation in connection with his services as a consultant. A copy of the Consulting Agreement is attached to this Current Report on Form 8-K as Exhibit 10.1 and incorporated by reference in this Item 5.02.

**Item 5.07.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.**

There were 1,364,466,571 shares of Altria's common stock represented in person or by proxy at the Annual Meeting, constituting 81.64% of outstanding shares on March 25, 2026, the record date for the Annual Meeting. The matters voted upon at the Annual Meeting and the final voting results are set forth below:

**Proposal 1:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Election of 10 Directors.**

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| Name | For | Against | Abstain | Broker Non-Vote |
| Ian L.T. Clarke | 1013287203 | 8238910 | 3752218 | 339188240 |
| Marjorie M. Connelly | 1008048874 | 13600216 | 3629241 | 339188240 |
| R. Matt Davis | 1013953369 | 7535213 | 3789749 | 339188240 |
| Debra J. Kelly-Ennis | 992663779 | 29046549 | 3568003 | 339188240 |
| Salvatore Mancuso | 1015072387 | 6516667 | 3689277 | 339188240 |
| Kathryn B. McQuade | 994449272 | 27294877 | 3534182 | 339188240 |
| Virginia E. Shanks | 1013051391 | 8667012 | 3559928 | 339188240 |
| Richard S. Stoddart | 1014437977 | 7088228 | 3752126 | 339188240 |
| Ellen R. Strahlman | 1012835359 | 8722439 | 3720533 | 339188240 |
| M. Max Yzaguirre | 1013302757 | 8247365 | 3728209 | 339188240 |

---

All nominees were duly elected as directors of Altria.

**Proposal 2:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ratification of the Selection of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm for the Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2026.**

For Against Abstain <br> 1,312,899,222 46,339,041 5,228,308

The selection of the independent registered public accounting Firm was ratified.

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**Proposal 3:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Non-Binding Advisory Vote to Approve the Compensation of Altria's Named Executive Officers.**

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| For | Against | Abstain | Broker Non-Vote |
| 977,966,533 | 38,503,766 | 8,808,032 | 339,188,240 |

---

The proposal was approved on an advisory basis.

**Item 9.01.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Financial Statements and Exhibits.**

**(d) Exhibits**

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| 10.1 | <u>[Consulting Agreement](consultingagreementbetween.htm)[, dated May 15, 2026](consultingagreementbetween.htm)[,](consultingagreementbetween.htm)[between Altria Group, Inc. and William F. Gifford, Jr.](consultingagreementbetween.htm)</u> |
| 104 | Cover Page Interactive File (the cover page tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document). |

---

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**SIGNATURES**

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| ALTRIA GROUP, INC. | ALTRIA GROUP, INC. |
| By: | <u>/s/ MARY C. BIGELOW</u> |
| Name: | Mary C. Bigelow |
| Title: | Vice President, Corporate Secretary and |
|  | Associate General Counsel |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

DATE:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;May 18, 2026

## Exhibit 10.1

**Exhibit 10.1**

**CONSULTING AGREEMENT**

This Consulting Agreement ("Agreement") is entered into this 15th day of May, 2026, by and between Altria Group, Inc., a Virginia corporation (the "Company"), and William F. Gifford, Jr. ("Gifford").

**RECITALS**

Gifford was previously employed as Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Company.

Gifford retired from the Company effective May 14, 2026 (the "Retirement Date"). The Company and Gifford have entered into an Agreement and General Release of even date herewith (the "Separation Agreement").

The Company, in recognition of Gifford's ability to provide critical advice to its new Chief Executive Officer, desires to retain Gifford to render certain consulting services to the Company for seven and one-half (7.5) months after his retirement from the Company on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement, and Gifford desires to be retained by the Company on such terms and conditions.

**NOW, THEREFORE,** in consideration of the foregoing and mutual covenants set forth below, the Company and Gifford agree as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**1.<u>Duties and Engagement</u>.** During the Term (defined below), Gifford agrees to render consulting services to the Company on such matters as the Board of Directors or Chief Executive Officer may request within Gifford's knowledge and experience related to the business of the Company, including its subsidiaries affiliates, and joint ventures (collectively, the "Services"). The Services shall include, without limitation, assisting the new Chief Executive Officer with his transition, serving as a strategic advisor to the Chief Executive Officer and other senior management, advising on the Company's strategic planning process, assisting with preparation for Board meetings, and advising and assisting on such other matters as may be requested by the Board or Chief Executive Officer and agreed to by Gifford, which agreement may not be unreasonably withheld. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Gifford's level of services shall not exceed twenty (20) percent of the average level of services that Gifford performed over the thirty-six (36) month period immediately preceding the Retirement Date, consistent with the parties' intent that Gifford's retirement shall constitute a "separation from service" within the meaning of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**2.<u>Effective Date and Term</u>.** The term of this Agreement shall commence on May 15, 2026 and shall end on December 31, 2026, unless earlier terminated as provided in Section 9 of this Agreement (the "Term"). If the Company wishes to renew this Agreement, it shall inform Gifford in writing at least 30 days prior to the expiration of the Term. By mutual written agreement, this Agreement or any extension thereof may be renewed for additional terms and under such conditions as the parties may agree.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**3.<u>Compensation</u>.** As compensation for Gifford's performance of the Services and the obligations stated in Section 7, the Company, having obtained the appropriate approvals from the Board of Directors and the Compensation & Talent Development Committee of the Board,

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agrees to pay Gifford a monthly rate of Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($250,000) per month for 7.5 months, through December 31, 2026. The monthly payment for May 2026 will be prorated. Gifford shall receive no other compensation in connection with his performance of the Services.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**4.<u>Travel and Expenses</u>.**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)The Services shall be rendered at the Company's corporate headquarters in Richmond, Virginia or at any other mutually agreeable location.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)Company will reimburse Gifford at cost (with no mark-up) for travel expenses Gifford incurs in connection with the Services, but only if Gifford complies with this Section.

&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;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;i.Meals and Incidentals: Company will reimburse Gifford for reasonable meals and incidentals at cost as supported by receipts.

&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;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;ii.Airfare, Land Transportation and Hotels: Company will reimburse reasonable airfare, land transportation and hotel expenses (including taxes and fees) that are supported by appropriate receipts.

&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;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;iii.Submission: Gifford must maintain documentation of all travel expenses greater than $50.00 and provide this documentation to Company with submission of expenses. All expenses must be submitted no later than sixty days after the end of the month in which the expenses were incurred.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**5.<u>Independent Contractor Status</u>.** During the Term and any renewal period, Gifford shall be an independent contractor, and not an employee or agent of the Company or any of its affiliates. Gifford shall not have authority to assume, create or incur any liabilities or obligations of any kind against or on behalf of the Company. Further, Gifford shall not be entitled to any compensation or to participate as an employee in any employee benefit programs of the Company, except those incentive and other payments provided in connection with his separation from the Company and to the extent he is eligible to participate as a retiree of the Company under the Company's employee benefit plans.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**6.<u>Taxes</u>.** Gifford acknowledges and agrees that, as an independent contractor, he shall bear sole responsibility for rendering his services, including payments of all taxes and other governmental payments required for anyone to operate a business or consultancy, including without limitation, the payment of all federal, state and local income taxes, self-employment FICA (social security) taxes, and unemployment and workers compensation payments.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**7.<u>Confidentiality, Non-Competition and Intellectual Property</u>.** As part of the consideration of this Agreement, the parties agree that the Confidentiality and Non-Competition Agreement between Gifford and the Company, dated March 13, 2025 and attached hereto (the "Confidentiality and Non-Competition Agreement"), shall remain in full force and effect except as modified by this Section 7. The parties further agree that:

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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;(a)All obligations Gifford had under the Confidentiality and Non-Competition Agreement as an employee of the Company shall continue to apply during the Term and any renewal period, provided that Gifford shall not be required to devote his full-time efforts to the business of the Company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)The 18-month post-employment restriction period referenced in Paragraphs 6 and 7 of the Confidentiality and Non-Competition Agreement shall commence upon the expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement, but the three-year and 12-month periods referred to in Paragraphs 6(a) and 6(d) of the Confidentiality and Non-Competition Agreement shall be based on Gifford's Retirement 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;(c)This Section 7 shall be deemed a proper amendment to the Confidentiality and Non-Competition Agreement; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d)This Section 7 shall survive the termination of this Agreement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**8.<u>Indemnification</u>.** The Company and Gifford acknowledge and agree that (i) the Company's Restated Articles of Incorporation ("Articles") provide for the exculpation, indemnification and the advancement and reimbursement of legal and other expenses for former officers and directors among other eligible persons; and (ii) in Gifford's capacity as a consultant under the Consulting Agreement, the Company shall (a) provide for Gifford's exculpation and indemnification and the advancement and reimbursement of his legal and other expenses to the full extent that the Articles provide such protection to the Company's officers, and (b) maintain liability insurance coverage for Gifford to the full extent that the Company provides such coverage to its officers.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**9.<u>Termination</u>.** This Agreement will terminate and be of no further force or effect upon the occurrence of any of the following events:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)Gifford dies;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)The Company, by written notice to Gifford, terminates this Agreement due to Gifford's Disability. As used in this Agreement, "Disability" shall mean a permanent and total disability within the meaning of the Company's Long-Term Disability Plan for Salaried Employees.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)The Company terminates this Agreement for Cause. As used in this Agreement, the term "Cause" shall mean: (i) Gifford's conviction of (or plea of guilty or nolo contendere to) (A) any felony or (B) any misdemeanor involving fraud or dishonesty in connection with the performance of the Services or moral turpitude; (ii) the willful failure of Gifford to substantially perform the Services (other than any such failure resulting from illness, injury, or Disability); (iii) Gifford has willfully engaged in misconduct which has, or can reasonably be expected to have, a material adverse effect on the Company or its businesses; or (iv) Gifford has materially breached his obligations under Section 7 of this Agreement, the Confidentiality and Non-Competition Agreement, or the Separation Agreement. For purposes of this section, the Company, in its reasonable discretion, shall determine whether any action or failure to act by Gifford is deemed willful; provided, however, that no act or failure to act by Gifford shall be deemed

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considered willful unless he acted in bad faith or without a reasonable belief that his act or omission was in the best interest of the Company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d)The Company terminates this Agreement for any reason other than for Cause or Disability, which the Company may do at any time;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e)Gifford voluntarily terminates his services due to a material default by the Company in the performance of any of its obligations under this Agreement, which default remains unremedied by the Company for a period of 15 days following its receipt of written notice by Gifford ("Good Reason"); 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;(f)Gifford voluntarily terminates his services for any reason other than Good Reason, which Gifford may do at any time with at least 30 days' advance notice to the Company.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**10.<u>Effects of Termination</u>.**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)If the Agreement is terminated under Section 9(a), 9(b), 9(d) or 9(e) of this Agreement, the Company shall perform all of its obligations under Section 3 of 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;(b)If the Agreement is terminated under Section 9(c) or 9(f) of this Agreement, the Company has no further obligations under Section 3 of this Agreement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**11.<u>Severability</u>.** If any provision of this Agreement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, void, or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall nevertheless continue in full force and effect.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**12.<u>Notices</u>.** All notices and other communications hereunder shall be in writing. Any notice or other communication hereunder shall be deemed duly given if it is sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid to the intended recipient as set forth:

If to Gifford to his current residence maintained in the Company's records.

If to the Company, to:

Mr. Charles N. Whitaker

Altria Group, Inc.

6601 W. Broad St.

Richmond, Virginia 23230

Any party may send any notice or other communication hereunder to the intended recipient at the address above using any other means (including personal delivery, overnight delivery, or electronic mail), but no such notice or other communication shall be deemed to have been duly given unless and until it is actually received by the intended recipient.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**13.<u>Entire Agreement</u>.** This Agreement, the Separation Agreement and the Confidentiality and Non-Competition Agreement set forth the entire agreement between the parties, and except as otherwise provided herein, fully supersede any and all prior agreements, understandings, or representations between the parties pertaining to the subject matter of this

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Agreement. This Agreement may not be changed, modified or terminated, in whole or in part, except by an instrument in writing signed by the parties hereto.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**14.<u>Choice of Law</u>.** This Agreement shall be deemed performable by all parties in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the construction and enforcement of this Agreement shall be governed by Virginia law without regard to its conflict of laws rules.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**15.<u>Binding Effect of Agreement</u>.** This Agreement shall be binding upon Gifford, the Company, and their heirs, administrators, representatives, executors, successors and permitted assigns.

The parties have duly executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

ALTRIA GROUP, INC.

By: <u>/s/ CHARLES N. WHITAKER</u> 

Charles N. Whitaker

Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer and Chief Compliance Officer, Altria Group, Inc., on behalf of the Company.

<u>/s/ WILLIAM F. GIFFORD, JR.</u> 

William F. Gifford, Jr.

<br>