# EDGAR Filing Document

**Accession Number:** 0001309402
**File Stem:** 0001309402-25-000133
**Filing Date:** 2025-8
**Character Count:** 58903
**Document Hash:** 4cea9ca900dfd493d9f9d69a7b0a2e7f
**Contains OCR:** False
**Source Format:** 

## Filing Content

## Filing Summary
**0001309402-25-000133.hdr.sgml**: 20250819

**ACCESSION NUMBER**: 0001309402-25-000133

**CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE**: 8-K

**PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT**: 15

**CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT**: 20250819

**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**: 20250819

**DATE AS OF CHANGE**: 20250819

**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** Green Plains Inc.
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0001309402
- **STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION:** INDUSTRIAL ORGANIC CHEMICALS [2860]
- **ORGANIZATION NAME:** 08 Industrial Applications and Services
- **EIN:** 841652107
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** IA
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 1231

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** 8-K
- **SEC ACT:** 1934 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 001-32924
- **FILM NUMBER:** 251231993

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 1811 AKSARBEN DRIVE
- **CITY:** OMAHA
- **STATE:** NE
- **ZIP:** 68106
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** 402-884-8700

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 1811 AKSARBEN DRIVE
- **CITY:** OMAHA
- **STATE:** NE
- **ZIP:** 68106

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** Green Plains Renewable Energy, Inc.
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 20100106

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** GREEN PLAINS RENEWABLE ENERGY, INC.
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 20060314

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** Green Plains Renewable Energy, Inc.
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 20041123

?xml version='1.0' encoding='ASCII'? gpre-20250819

**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): August 19, 2025**

_______________________________

**GREEN PLAINS INC.**

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

_______________________________

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Iowa** | **001-32924** | **84-1652107** |
| (State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation) | (Commission File Number) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |

---

**1811 Aksarben Drive**

**Omaha, Nebraska 68106**

(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)

**(402) 884-8700**

(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

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

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

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| Title of each class | Trading Symbol(s) | Name of each exchange on which registered |
| Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share | GPRE | The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC |

---

_______________________________

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))

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. Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers; Compensatory Arrangement of Certain Officers.**

On August 19, 2025, the Board of Directors of Green Plains Inc. (the "Company") appointed Chris Osowski as Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board of Directors (the "Board") of the Company, effective immediately. Mr. Osowski recently served as Executive Vice President, Operations and Technology since January 2022 and has been a member of the company's Executive Committee since March 2025.

Mr. Osowski, age 46, brings to the role more than 20 years of global leadership experience across the chemical, agribusiness, and renewable energy sectors, and is widely recognized for driving operational transformation, innovation and sustainable growth in complex industrial environments. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Osowski was Vice President, Global Technology at ADM from August 2020 to December 2021, General Director, Aston Starch Products, an ADM joint venture in Moscow, from July 2018 to August 2020, Managing Director – India Operations, New Delhi at ADM from February 2015 to February 2017, and held several other senior level positions at ADM from August 2013 to January 2015. Mr. Osowski also held several senior level positions at Tate & Lyle from August 2008 to August 2013, served as Production Support Manager at Renewable Energy Group from March 2007 to August 2008 and Technical Manager at POET from September 2003 to March 2007. Mr. Osowski has a Master's degree in Business Administration from Minnesota State University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture and Biosystems Engineering from North Dakota State University.

In connection with his appointment, the Company and Mr. Osowski entered into an Employee Agreement (the "Employee Agreement") which provides for (i) an annual base salary of $650,000, (ii) a one-time special bonus of $50,000 subject to the achievement of certain deliverables over the first 100 days, (iii) an annual target bonus of 100% of his annual base salary based on performance objectives set by the Board's Compensation Committee, (iv) (1) a restricted stock award with a grant date fair value of $700,000 vesting ratably over three years and (2) a performance share unit award with a grant date fair value of $700,000 vesting on the third anniversary of the grant date, subject to the achievement of certain performance metrics, in each case, granted under the Company's 2019 Equity Incentive Plan (the "Equity Plan"), (v) participation in a long-term incentive program developed by the Company, and (vi) participation in the Company's benefit plans. Additionally, the Employee Agreement provides that if his employment is terminated by the Company without cause or by the executive for good reason, he will receive a lump sum payment equal to one times (or 2.5 times if within 24 months of a change in control) his annual base salary and target bonus, immediate vesting of all equity awards at target levels, and continued group health coverage at active employee rates for 12 months (or 18 months if within 24 months of a change in control). Mr. Osowski's employment is at-will and may be terminated at any time, by either party, for any reason whatsoever. The Employee Agreement for Mr. Osowski is attached as Exhibit 10.1 hereto. The foregoing description of the Employee Agreement is not complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Employee Agreement, which is filed as Exhibit 10.1 to this Current Report on Form 8-K and incorporated herein by reference.

In connection with Mr. Osowski's appointment as Chief Executive Officer, the Board determined that effective upon August 19, 2025, the date Mr. Osowski commences his role as Chief Executive Officer, Michelle Mapes will no longer serve as interim principal executive officer. Ms. Mapes will continue to serve in her longstanding role as the Company's Chief Legal & Administration Officer and Corporate Secretary. Ms. Mapes was appointed Interim Principal Executive Officer on March 1, 2025 upon Todd Becker's departure as President and Chief Executive Officer. At that time, the Board also created an Executive Committee, comprised of Imre Havasi, Senior Vice President – Head of Trading and Commercial Operations, Michelle Mapes, Chief Legal & Administration Officer, Chris Osowski, Executive Vice President – Operations and Technology, and Jamie Herbert, Chief Human Resource Officer, to lead the Company until Mr. Becker's successor was appointed. In connection with Mr. Osowski's appointment, the Executive Committee was dissolved effective August 19, 2025.

Also in connection with Mr. Osowski's appointment, the Company promoted Trent Collins to serve as Senior Vice President of Operations effective August 19, 2025. Mr. Collins has most recently served as Vice President of Operational Excellence for the Company since April 2024. Mr. Collins, age 55, brings to the role more than 30 years of leadership experience across the protein and agribusiness sectors. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Collins was Senior Vice President Ingredients Operations at Benson Hill from August 2021 to March 2024, was Global Director, Proteins Technology at ADM from June 2019 to July 2021, and held several other senior level and engineering positions at ADM from June 1993 to June 2019. Mr. Collins has a Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering from Kansas State University.

The Company entered into an employee agreement with Mr. Collins which provides for (i) an annual base salary of $315,600, (ii) (1) a restricted stock award with a grant date fair value of $132,000 vesting ratably over three years and (2) a performance share unit award with a grant date fair value of $132,000 vesting on the third anniversary of the grant date, subject to the achievement of certain performance metrics, in each case, granted under the Equity Plan, (iii) an annual target bonus of 80% of his annual base salary based on performance objectives set by the Board's Compensation

------

Committee, (iv) participation in a long-term incentive program developed by the Company, (v) participation in the Company's benefit plans and (vi) relocation benefits consisting of (1) a one-time relocation bonus of $10,000, (2) temporary living for up to 60 days and (3) shipment and storage of household goods. Mr. Collins' employment is at-will and may be terminated at any time, by either party, for any reason whatsoever. Mr. Collins is also eligible to participate in the Company's Executive Change in Control Severance.

Messrs. Osowski and Collins have no family relationships with any director or executive officer of the Company. Messrs. Osowski and Collins have no direct or indirect material interest in any transaction with the Company that are reportable under Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K, nor have any such transactions been proposed.

**Item 7.01. Regulation FD Disclosure.**

On August 19, 2025, the Company issued a press release announcing the appointment of its Chief Executive Officer. A copy of the press release is furnished hereto as Exhibit 99.1 and incorporated into this Item 7.01 by reference.

The information in this Item 7.01 of Form 8-K, including the accompanying Exhibit 99.1, shall not be deemed "filed" for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act, or otherwise subject to the liability of such section, nor shall such information be deemed incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, regardless of the general incorporation language of such filing, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference in such filing.

**Item 9.01. Financial Statements and Exhibits.**

(d) Exhibits. The following exhibits are filed as part of this report.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Exhibit No.** | **Description of Exhibit** |
| <u>[10.1](exhibit101-employmentagree.htm)</u> | <u>[E](exhibit101-employmentagree.htm)[mploy](exhibit101-employmentagree.htm)[ment](exhibit101-employmentagree.htm)[A](exhibit101-employmentagree.htm)[g](exhibit101-employmentagree.htm)[reement by and between Green Plains Inc. and](exhibit101-employmentagree.htm)[Chris Osowski](exhibit101-employmentagree.htm)[,](exhibit101-employmentagree.htm)[effective](exhibit101-employmentagree.htm)[August 19](exhibit101-employmentagree.htm)[, 2025](exhibit101-employmentagree.htm)</u> |
| <u>[99.1](exhibit991-pressrelease.htm)</u> | <u>[Press Release, dated](exhibit991-pressrelease.htm)[August 19](exhibit991-pressrelease.htm)[, 2025](exhibit991-pressrelease.htm)</u> |
| 104 | Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document) |

---

------

**SIGNATURE**

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.

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Green Plains Inc.** | **Green Plains Inc.** |
| Date: August 19, 2025 | By: | /s/ Philip B. Boggs |
|  |  | Philip B. Boggs |
|  |  | Chief Financial Officer<br>(Principal Financial Officer) |

---

## Exhibit 10.1

**Exhibit 10.1**

**EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT**

This Employment Agreement (this "***Agreement***") is effective as of the Effective Date defined herein, by and between GREEN PLAINS INC., an Iowa corporation (the "***Company***"), and CHRIS OSOWSKI, an individual ("***Executive***").

In consideration of the promises and mutual covenants contained herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Employment; Location</u>. The Company hereby employs Executive and Executive hereby accepts such employment in the Omaha, Nebraska metro area.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Term</u>. Executive's employment shall be "at-will" and may be terminated at any time, by either party, for any reason whatsoever (the "***Term***"). Executive's employment with the Company shall commence August 19, 2025 and the terms of this Agreement are effective as of the start date of Executive (the "***Effective Date***").

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Duties and Authorities. During the Term</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;3.1&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Executive shall serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the Company and shall report to the board of directors of the Company (the "***Board***"). Executive shall have responsibilities, duties and authority reasonably accorded to and expected of such positions in similar businesses in the United States, including such responsibilities and duties assigned by the Board from time to time (the "***Duties***").

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Executive shall diligently execute such Duties and shall devote his full time, skills and efforts to such Duties, subject to the general supervision and control of the Board. Executive will not engage in any other employment, occupation or consulting activity during the Term of this Agreement, without the consent of the Board.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Compensation and Benefits</u>. The Company shall pay Executive, and Executive accepts as full compensation for all services to be rendered to the Company, the following compensation and benefits:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.1&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Base Salary</u>. The Company shall pay Executive a base salary of Six Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($650,000) per year. Base salary shall be payable in equal installments twice monthly or at more frequent intervals in accordance with the Company's customary pay schedule. The Board shall annually consider increases of Executive's base salary and may periodically increase such base salary in its discretion.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Additional Compensation</u>. In addition to base salary, the Company shall pay the following to Executive:

&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)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Special Bonus</u>. Executive will be entitled to receive a one-time special bonus in an amount equal to Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000), subject to the achievement of the deliverables over the first one hundred (100) days as Chief Executive Officer, which deliverables

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will be outlined during the Management by Objective process. The special bonus, if any, shall be paid within thirty (30) days following the end of the first one hundred (100) days.

&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)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Annual Bonus</u>. Executive will be entitled to participate in the Company's short-term incentive plan ("***STIP***"), which currently has designated a target bonus of up to one hundred percent (100%) of annual base salary, payable annually, when target objectives set by the Compensation Committee of the Board ("***Compensation Committee***") are achieved. The STIP is subject to change at the discretion of the Board.

&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)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Long-Term Incentive Compensation</u>. The Compensation Committee has developed a long-term incentive program ("***LTIP***") for the Company, which is subject to change at the discretion of the Board. Executive shall be eligible to participate in such LTIP at the sole discretion of the Company. Subject to the approval of the Compensation Committee, Executive shall receive no later than ten (10) days following the Effective Date (i) a one-time grant of restricted stock with a grant date fair value of Seven Hundred Thousand Dollars ($700,000), which shall vest in substantially equal annual installments over a three (3) year period, and (ii) a one-time grant of performance share units with a target grant date fair value of Seven Hundred Thousand Dollars ($700,000), which shall vest on the third anniversary of the grant date, subject to the achievement of performance metrics established by the Compensation Committee. The grant, terms, and conditions of such equity awards shall be subject to the applicable award agreements and the Company's equity incentive plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.3&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Intentionally Left Blank.

&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)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Intentionally Left Blank.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Additional Benefits</u>. Executive shall be permitted, during the Term, if and to the extent eligible, to participate in any group life, hospitalization or disability insurance plan, health or dental program, pension plan, similar benefit plan or other so-called "fringe benefits" of the Company made available to officers 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;4.5&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Vacation</u>. Executive shall be entitled to an aggregate of up to four (4) weeks leave for vacation for each calendar year during the Term at full pay. Executive agrees to give reasonable notice of his vacation scheduling requests, which shall be allowed subject to the Company's reasonable business needs. No more than five (5) days vacation may be carried over from one year to the next year.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.6&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Deductions</u>. The Company shall have the right to deduct from the compensation due to Executive hereunder any and all sums required for social security and withholding taxes and for any other federal, state or local tax or charge which may be hereafter enacted or required by law as a charge on the compensation of Executive.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Business Expenses</u>. Executive may incur reasonable, ordinary and necessary business expenses in the course of his performance of his obligations under this Agreement. The

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Company shall reimburse Executive in accordance with the Company's business expense reimbursement policy.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Intentionally Left Blank</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>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;7.1&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Termination for Cause</u>. Executive's employment hereunder shall be terminable for Cause (as defined below) upon written notice from the Company to Executive. As used in this Agreement, "***Cause***" shall mean one of the following: (a) a material breach by Executive of the terms of this Agreement, not cured within thirty (30) days from receipt of notice from the Board of such breach, (b) conviction of or plea of guilty or no contest to, a felony; (c) willful misconduct or gross negligence in connection with the performance of Executive's duties; or (d) willfully engaging in conduct that constitutes fraud, gross negligence or gross misconduct. For purposes of this definition, no act, or failure to act, on Executive's part shall be considered "willful" unless done, or omitted to be done, by Executive in knowing bad faith and without reasonable belief that his action or omission was in, or not opposed to, the best interests of the Company. If the Company terminates Executive's employment for Cause, Executive shall be paid his salary and benefits through the date of termination and, except as otherwise required by applicable law or under any applicable and properly approved compensation plan or arrangement, no other amounts shall be payable.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7.2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Termination without Cause or for Good Reason</u>. The Company may terminate Executive's employment at any time for any reason (or no reason) other than Cause, as determined by the Board and the Executive may terminate Executive's employment with the Company for Good Reason and resign any and all positions as officer of the Company and any related companies. If the Company terminates Executive's employment without Cause or the Executive terminates his employment for Good Reason:

&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)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company shall pay within 10 business days after such termination: (i) an amount equal to (x) one (1) multiplied by (y) the sum of Executive's full annual base salary and target bonus on the date of his termination or (ii) in the event of a Change in Control (as defined in the Company's 2019 Equity Incentive Plan) has occurred within twenty four (24) months prior to such termination (the "***CIC Period***"), an amount equal to (x) two and a half (2.5) multiplied by (y) the sum of Executive's full annual base salary and target bonus on the date of his termination, in lieu of and not in addition to the amount in section subsection (i);

&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)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All options and other equity awards, whether made pursuant to this agreement or otherwise, shall become fully vested and released from any restrictions on transfer upon such termination and PSU awards shall vest at the target level; 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;(c)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Continuation coverage under the Company's group health plans pursuant to COBRA at active employee rates for the coverage selected by Executive for the following periods: (i) twelve (12) months if such termination was prior to or following the CIC Period or (ii) eighteen (18) months if such termination occurred within the CIC Period.

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Notwithstanding Section 7.2(b), the Company reserves the right in any future special award to override Section 7.2(b) with respect to such special award; provided however, no such override is intended by this provision with respect to annual awards.

As used in this Agreement, "***Good Reason***" shall mean any of the following if the same occurs without Executive's express written consent: (a) a material diminution in Executive's base salary as described in Section 4.1, which for such purposes shall be deemed to exist with a reduction of greater than fifteen percent (15%); (b) a material diminution in Executive's authority, Duties, or responsibilities; (c) a material diminution in the authority, duties, or responsibilities of the person to whom Executive is required to report; (d) a material change in the geographic location (defined as greater than fifty (50) miles from Omaha, NE) at which Executive must perform the services pursuant to Section 1; (e) any material reduction or other material adverse change in Executive's benefits under any applicable and properly approved compensation plan or arrangement without the substitution of comparable benefits; or (e) any other action or inaction that constitutes a material breach by the Company under this Agreement. To terminate for Good Reason, an Executive must incur a termination of employment on or before the second (2<sup>nd</sup>) anniversary of the initial existence of the condition.

Executive shall be required to provide notice to the Company of the existence of any of the foregoing conditions within 60 days of the initial existence of the condition, upon the notice of which the Company shall have a period of 30 days during which it may remedy the condition.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7.3&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Termination by Executive Without Good Reason</u>. If Executive terminates without Good Reason, then Executive will be required to give the Company at least ninety (90) days notice. If Executive terminates without Good Reason then Executive will be paid his salary and benefits through the date of termination and, except as otherwise required by applicable law, no other amounts shall be payable except as provided under any applicable and properly approved compensation plan or arrangement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7.4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Effect of Termination</u>. In the event Executive's employment is terminated, all obligations of the Company and all obligations of Executive shall cease except that (a) the terms of this Section 7 and of Sections 8 through 23 below shall survive such termination and (b) the Company shall continue to be obligated to fulfill its obligations pursuant to Section 4, 5 and 6 to the extent they have not been satisfied as of the date of such termination. Executive acknowledges that, upon termination of his employment, he is entitled to no other compensation, severance or other benefits other than those specifically set forth in this Agreement, except to the extent provided in any applicable compensation plan or arrangement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Covenant Not to Compete; Nonsolicitation</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;8.1&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**Acknowledgments.** Executive acknowledges that Company's relationships with its customers, clients, employees, and other business associations are among Company's most important assets and that developing, maintaining, and continuing such relationships is one of Company's highest priorities. Executive further understands Executive will be relied upon to develop and to maintain such relationships on behalf of Company throughout the course of Executive's employment with Company.

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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;8.2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**Non-Solicitation of Employees.** Executive agrees that, during the term of Executive's employment with Company and for a period of two (2) years after termination of Executive's employment with Company (voluntary or involuntary, for Good Reason, any reason or no reason), Executive will not, directly or indirectly, recruit, solicit, or induce, or attempt to induce, any employee(s) of Company, sales representatives, or foreign agents with or through whom Company conducts business (and with whom Executive worked and had personal contact during Executive's employment) to terminate their employment with, or otherwise cease a relationship with, 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;8.3&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation of Customers**. For a period of two (2) years following the termination of Executive's employment with Company (voluntary or involuntary, for Good Reason, any reason or no reason), Executive shall not, seek or accept employment with, call on, solicit the business of, sell to, or service (directly or indirectly, on Executive's own behalf or in association, with or on behalf of any other individual or entity), any of the customers of Company with whom Executive did business and had personal contact during the two (2) years immediately preceding the termination of Executive's employment with Company, except to the extent such activities are unrelated to and not competitive with the business, products or services offered or provided by Company and cannot adversely affect the relationship or volume of business that Company has with its customers.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8.4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**Reasonable Restrictions.** In signing this Agreement, Executive is fully aware of the restrictions that this Agreement places upon Executive's future employment or contractual opportunities with someone other than Company. However, Executive understands and agrees that Executive's employment by Company and Executive's access to Confidential Information (as defined below), trade secrets and goodwill of Company makes such restrictions both necessary and reasonable. Executive acknowledges and agrees that the restrictions hereby imposed constitute reasonable protections of the legitimate business interests of Company and that they will not unduly restrict Executive's opportunity to earn a reasonable living following Executive's termination from employment with 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;8.5&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**Intended Third Party Beneficiaries.** Executive acknowledges and understands that some of the Confidential Information, trade secrets and/or goodwill accessible to Executive in the performance of Executive's duties during Executive's employment with Company may belong to and be provided by Company's parents, subsidiaries, and/or affiliates ("***Third Party Beneficiaries***"). For purposes of this Agreement, the term "affiliates" means any entity under common control or ownership with Company. Executive expressly acknowledges and agrees that the Third Party Beneficiaries are intended third party beneficiaries of this Agreement as it pertains to Executive's obligations under this Agreement and shall have the right to enforce this Agreement directly against Executive in their own names or jointly with Company or each other. This Agreement, without more, is not intended to and shall not be construed as granting any Third Party Beneficiary with any ownership interest of any kind in any of Company's Confidential Information.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Confidential Information</u>. Executive acknowledges that during his employment or consultancy with the Company he will develop, discover, have access to and/or become acquainted with technical, financial, marketing, personnel and other information relating to the present or contemplated products or the conduct of business of the Company which is of a confidential and proprietary nature ("***Confidential Information***"). Executive agrees that all files, records, documents and the like relating to such Confidential Information, whether prepared by him or otherwise coming into his possession, shall remain the exclusive property of the Company, and Executive hereby agrees to promptly disclose such Confidential Information to the Company upon request and hereby assigns to the Company any rights which he may acquire in any Confidential Information. Executive further agrees not to disclose or use any Confidential Information and to use his best efforts to prevent the disclosure or use of any Confidential Information either during the term of his employment or consultancy or at any time thereafter, except as may be necessary in the ordinary course of performing his duties under this Agreement. Upon termination of Executive's employment or consultancy with the Company for any reason, (a) Executive shall promptly deliver to the Company all materials, documents, data, equipment and other physical property of any nature containing or pertaining to any Confidential Information, and (b) Executive shall not take from the Company's premises any such material or equipment or any reproduction thereof.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Inventions</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;10.1&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Disclosure of Inventions</u>. Executive hereby agrees that if he conceives, learns, makes or first reduces to practice, either alone or jointly with others, any "***Employment Inventions***" (as defined in Section 10.3 below) while he is employed by the Company, either as an employee or as a consultant, he will promptly disclose such Employment Inventions to the Board or to any other Company officer designated by the Board.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Ownership, Assignment Assistance and Power of Attorney</u>. All Employment Inventions shall be the sole and exclusive property of the Company, and the Company shall have the right to use and to apply for patents, copyrights or other statutory or common law protection for such Employment Inventions in any country. Executive hereby assigns to the Company any rights which he may acquire in such Employment Inventions. Furthermore, Executive agrees to assist the Company in every proper way at the Company's expense to obtain patents, copyrights and other statutory or common law protections for such Employment Inventions in any country and to enforce such rights from time to time. Specifically, Executive agrees to execute all documents as the Company may desire for use in applying for and in obtaining or enforcing such patents, copyrights and other statutory or common law protections together with any assignments thereof to the Company or to any person designated by the Company. Executive's obligations under this Section 10 shall continue beyond the termination of his employment under this Agreement, but the Company shall compensate Executive at a reasonable rate after any such termination for the time which Executive actually spends at the Company's request in rendering such assistance. In the event the Company is unable for any reason whatsoever to secure Executive's signature (after reasonable attempts to do so) to any lawful document required to apply for or to enforce any patent, copyright or other statutory or common law protections for such Employment Inventions, Executive hereby

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irrevocably designates and appoints the Company and its duly authorized officers and agents as his agents and attorneys-in-fact to act in his stead to execute such documents and to do such other lawful and necessary acts to further the issuance and prosecution of such patents, copyrights or other statutory or common law protection, such documents or such acts to have the same legal force and effect as if such documents were executed by or such acts were done by Executive.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Exclusion of Prior Inventions</u>. Executive has identified on **Exhibit A** attached hereto a complete list of all inventions which Executive has conceived, learned, made or first reduced to practice, either alone or jointly with others, prior to employment with the Company and which Executive desires to exclude from the operation of this Agreement. If no inventions are listed on **Exhibit A**, Executive represents that he has made no such inventions at the time of signing 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;10.5&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Inventions of Third Parties</u>. Executive shall not disclose to the Company, use in the course of his employment, or incorporate into the Company's products or processes any confidential or proprietary information or inventions that belong to a third party, unless the Company has received authorization from such third party and Executive has been directed by the Board to do so.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Compliance with Section 409A of the Code</u>. Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary, this Agreement shall be interpreted, construed and conformed in accordance with Section 409A of the Code and regulations and other guidance issued thereunder. If, on the date of Executive's separation from service (as defined in Treasury Regulation §1.409A-1(h)), Executive is a specified employee (as defined in Code Section 409A and Treasury Regulation §1.409A-1(i)), no payment shall be made under this Agreement at any time during the 6-month period following Executive's separation from service of any amount that results in the "deferral of compensation" within the meaning of Treasury Regulation §1.409A-1(b), after application of the exemptions provided in Treasury Regulation §§1.409A-1(b)(4) and 1.409A-1(b)(9)(iii) and (v), and any amounts otherwise payable during such 6-month period shall be paid in a lump sum on the first payroll payment date following expiration of such 6-month period.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;12.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>No Conflicts</u>. Executive hereby represents that, to the best of his knowledge, his performance of all the terms of this Agreement and his work as an employee or consultant of the

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Company does not breach any oral or written agreement which he has made prior to his employment with the Company.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;13.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Equitable Remedies</u>. Executive acknowledges and agrees that the breach or threatened breach by his of certain provisions of this Agreement, including without limitation Sections 8, 9 or 10 above, would cause irreparable harm to the Company for which damages at law would be an inadequate remedy. Accordingly, Executive hereby agrees that in any such instance the Company shall be entitled to seek injunctive or other equitable relief in addition to any other remedy to which it may be entitled.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;14.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Assignment</u>. This Agreement is for the unique personal services of Executive and is not assignable or delegable in whole or in part by Executive without the consent of the Board. This Agreement may be assigned or delegated in whole or in part by the Company and, in such case, the terms of this Agreement shall inure to the benefit of, be assumed by, and be binding upon the entity to which this Agreement is assigned.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;15.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Waiver or Modification</u>. Any waiver, modification or amendment of any provision of this Agreement shall be effective only if in writing in a document that specifically refers to this Agreement and such document is signed by the parties hereto.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;16.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Entire Agreement</u>. This Agreement constitutes the full and complete understanding and agreement of the parties hereto with respect to the specific subject matter covered herein and therein and supersedes all prior oral or written understandings and agreements with respect to such specific subject matter.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;17.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Severability</u>. If any provision of this Agreement is found to be unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining provisions shall nevertheless remain enforceable in full force and effect, and the court making such determination shall modify, among other things, the scope, duration, or geographic area of such affected provision to preserve the enforceability thereof to the maximum extent then permitted by law.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;18.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Notices</u>. All notices thereunder shall be in writing addressed to the respective party as set forth below and may be personally served, sent by facsimile transmission, sent by overnight courier service, or sent by United States mail, return receipt requested. Such notices shall be deemed to have been given: (a) if delivered in person, on the date of delivery; (b) if delivered by facsimile transmission, on the date of transmission if transmitted by 5:00 p.m. (local time, Omaha, Nebraska) on a business day or, if not, on the next succeeding business day; provided that a copy of such notice is also sent the same day as the facsimile transmission by any other means permitted herein; (c) if delivered by overnight courier, on the date that delivery is first attempted; or (d) if by United States mail, on the earlier of two (2) business days after depositing in the United States mail, postage prepaid and properly addressed, or the date delivery is first attempted. Notices shall be addressed as set forth as set forth on the signature page hereof,

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or to such other address as the party to whom such notice is intended shall have previously designated by written notice to the serving party. Notices shall be deemed effective upon receipt.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;19.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Governing Law</u>. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Nebraska, without reference to the choice of law provisions thereof.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;20.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Attorneys' Fees</u>. In the event an action or proceeding is brought by any party under this Agreement to enforce or construe any of its terms, the party that prevails by enforcing this Agreement shall be entitled to recover, in addition to all other amounts and relief, its reasonable costs and attorneys' fees incurred in connection with such action or proceeding.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;21.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Construction</u>. Whenever the context requires, the singular shall include the plural and the plural shall include the singular, the whole shall include any part thereof, and any gender shall include all other genders. The headings in this Agreement are for convenience only and shall not limit, enlarge, or otherwise affect any of the terms of this Agreement. Unless otherwise indicated, all references in this Agreement to sections refer to the corresponding sections of this Agreement. This Agreement shall be construed as though all parties had drafted it.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;22.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Counterparts</u>. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same agreement. Counterparts and signatures transmitted by facsimile shall be valid, effective and enforceable as originals.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;23.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Indemnification</u>. In the event that Executive is made a party or threatened to be made a party to any action, suit, or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative, or investigative (a "***Proceeding***"), other than any Proceeding initiated by Executive or the Company related to any contest or dispute between Executive and the Company or any of its affiliates with respect to this Agreement or Executive's employment hereunder, by reason of the fact that Executive is or was a director or officer of the Company, or any affiliate of the Company, or is or was serving at the request of the Company as a director, officer, member, employee, or agent of another corporation or a partnership, joint venture, trust, or other enterprise, Executive shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Company to the fullest extent applicable to any other officer or director of the Company/to the maximum extent permitted under applicable law and the Company's bylaws from and against any liabilities, costs, claims, and expenses, including all costs and expenses incurred in defense of any Proceeding (including attorneys' fees). Costs and expenses incurred by Executive in defense of such Proceeding (including attorneys' fees) shall be paid by the Company in advance of the final disposition of such litigation upon receipt by the Company of: (i) a written request for payment; (ii) appropriate documentation evidencing the incurrence, amount, and nature of the costs and expenses for which payment is being sought; and (iii) an undertaking adequate under applicable law made by or on behalf of Executive to repay the amounts so paid if it shall ultimately be determined that Executive is not entitled to be indemnified by the Company under this Agreement. During the Term of this Agreement and while potential liability exists after the Term, as determined by the Company in its sole reasonable discretion but in no event for a period of not less than six (6) years thereafter, the Company or any successor to the Company shall purchase and maintain, at its own expense,

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directors' and officers' liability insurance providing coverage to Executive on terms that are no less favorable than the coverage provided to other directors and similarly situated executives of the Company.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Executive has signed this Agreement personally and the Company has caused this Agreement to be executed by its duly authorized representative.

GREEN PLAINS INC.

By: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>/s/ Brian Peterson&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>

Name: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Brian Peterson&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>

Title: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Chairman Comp Committee&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>

Address:

Green Plains Inc.

1811 Aksarben Dr.

Omaha NE 68106

Executive

<u>/s/ Chris Osowski&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>

CHRIS OSOWSKI, individually

Address:

______________

______________

______________

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**<u>EXHIBIT A</u>**

**EXCLUDED INVENTIONS**

## Exhibit 99.1

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|:---|:---|
| ![imagea.jpg](imagea.jpg) | ***Exhibit 99.1 <br>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE*** |

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**Green Plains Inc. Appoints Chris Osowski as Chief Executive Officer**

*Veteran operations and technology leader to drive next phase of growth and innovation*

**OMAHA, Neb. August 19, 2025** **(BUSINESS WIRE)** Green Plains Inc. (NASDAQ:GPRE) ("Green Plains," the "Company," "we" or "us") today announced the appointment of Chris Osowski as Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board of Directors, effective immediately.

Mr. Osowski most recently served as Executive Vice President, Operations and Technology of the Company since January 2022 and has been a member of the company's Executive Committee since March 2025.

"Chris has the right combination of leadership, operational depth, and industry experience to lead Green Plains into its next chapter," said Jim Anderson, Chairman of the Board. "As we considered several highly qualified candidates, we focused on finding a leader who could accelerate our safety-first, measurement-driven culture of operational excellence. Chris stood out as the right choice to carry that agenda forward."

"I would also like to extend the Board's sincere gratitude to Michelle Mapes for her outstanding service as Interim Principal Executive Officer and for her continued leadership as our Chief Legal and Administration Officer," added Anderson. "We are equally grateful to the other members of the Executive Committee — Imre Havasi, Jamie Herbert and Chris Osowski — for their steady leadership and collaboration during this important transition period."

With more than 20 years of global leadership experience across the chemical, agribusiness, and renewable energy sectors, Mr. Osowski is widely recognized for driving operational transformation, innovation and sustainable growth in complex industrial environments. He has held senior roles in the United States, Europe, and Asia.

Prior to joining Green Plains, Mr. Osowski served as Vice President, Global Technology for ADM and held leadership positions at Tate & Lyle, Renewable Energy Group, and POET. A native of Argyle, Minnesota, he holds a bachelor's degree in agricultural and biosystems engineering from North Dakota State University and an MBA from Minnesota State University.

"I am excited and honored to lead Green Plains," said Chris Osowski, Chief Executive Officer. "We have an exceptional team and a clear strategy focused on operational excellence, disciplined execution, and long-term value creation for our shareholders, customers, and communities. I'm also pleased to announce the appointment of Trent Collins to Senior Vice President of Operations. I have worked closely with Trent over the years and have seen firsthand the depth of his operational expertise and his unwavering commitment to building a culture centered on safety and accountability. His leadership will be instrumental as we continue to strengthen our performance and deliver on our strategic priorities."

Mr. Collins joined Green Plains as Vice President of Operational Excellence in April 2024 and brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in the protein and agribusiness sectors. He previously served as Senior Vice President Ingredients Operations at Benson Hill and Global Director, Proteins Technology at ADM.

**About Green Plains Inc.**

Green Plains Inc. (NASDAQ:GPRE) is a leading biorefining company advancing the transition to a low-carbon world through the production of renewable fuels and sustainable, high-impact ingredients. The company leverages agricultural, biological, and fermentation expertise to transform annually renewable crops into low-carbon energy and sustainable feedstocks. Green Plains is actively deploying carbon capture and storage (CCS) solutions, with three of its facilities set to begin carbon capture later this year. Through innovation and operational excellence, Green Plains is reducing the carbon intensity of its products while delivering value to stakeholders. For more information, visit <u>www.gpreinc.com.</u>

**Forward-Looking Statements**

All statements in this press release (and oral statements made regarding the subjects of this communication), including those that express a belief, expectation or intention, may be considered forward-looking statements (as defined in Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act, as amended, and Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended) that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from projected results. Without limiting the generality of the

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foregoing, forward-looking statements contained in this communication include statements relying on a number of assumptions concerning future events and are subject to a number of uncertainties and factors, many of which are outside the control of the company, which could cause actual results to differ materially from such statements. Accordingly, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results. The forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to the expected future growth, dividends and distributions; and plans and objectives of management for future operations. Forward-looking statements may be identified by words such as "believe," "intend," "expect," "may," "should," "will," "anticipate," "could," "estimate," "plan," "predict," "project" and variations of these words or similar expressions (or the negative versions of such words or expressions). While the company believes that the assumptions concerning future events are reasonable, it cautions that there are inherent difficulties in predicting certain important factors that could impact the future performance or results of its business. Among the factors that could cause results to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements are: the failure to realize the anticipated results from the new products being developed; the failure to realize the anticipated costs savings or other benefits of the merger; local, regional and national economic conditions and the impact they may have on the company and its customers; disruption caused by health epidemics, such as the COVID-19 outbreak; conditions in the ethanol and biofuels industry, including a sustained decrease in the level of supply or demand for ethanol and biofuels or a sustained decrease in the price of ethanol or biofuels; competition in the ethanol industry and other industries in which we operate; commodity market risks, including those that may result from weather conditions; the financial condition of the company's customers; any non-performance by customers of their contractual obligations; changes in safety, health, environmental and other governmental policy and regulation, including changes to tax laws such as the One Big Beautiful Bill; the impact of tariffs, renewable fuel programs and low carbon programs; risks related to acquisition and disposition activities and achieving anticipated results; risks associated with merchant trading; risks related to our equity method investees; the results of any reviews, investigations or other proceedings by government authorities; and the performance of the company.

The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. The forward-looking statements in this press release speak only as of the date they are made and the company assumes no obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by securities and other applicable laws. We have based these forward-looking statements on our current expectations and assumptions about future events. While the company's management considers these expectations and assumptions to be reasonable, they are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, regulatory and other risks, contingencies and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the company's control. These risks, contingencies and uncertainties relate to, among other matters, the risks and uncertainties set forth in the "Risk Factors" section of the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), and any subsequent reports filed by the company with the SEC. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements.

**Green Plains Inc. Contact**

Investor Relations \| 402.884.8700 \| <u>investor@gpreinc.com</u>

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