Document:

EXHIBIT 10.17

 

EMPLOYMENT
AGREEMENT

 

This Employment Agreement
(this “Agreement”), dated December 17, 2014, is entered into by and between Ambassadors Group, Inc. (the “Company”),
and Philip B. Livingston (“Mr. Livingston”) and is effective as of December 17, 2014 (the “Effective
Date”).

 

WITNESSETH:

 

WHEREAS, the Company
has employed Mr. Livingston as its Interim Chief Executive Officer since May 7, 2014, pursuant to that certain Letter Agreement
between the Company and Mr. Livingston dated May 13, 2014 (the “Prior Agreement”), and currently Mr. Livingston
serves as director of the Company; and

 

WHEREAS, the Company
desires to employ Mr. Livingston as its Chief Executive Officer, and Mr. Livingston desires to accept such employment, pursuant
to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, for
and in consideration of the mutual promises, covenants and obligations contained herein, the Company and Mr. Livingston agree as
follows:

 

		ARTICLE	1:                     
EMPLOYMENT AND DUTIES:

 

1.1               
Term. Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the Company agrees to employ Mr. Livingston, and Mr.
Livingston agrees to be employed by the Company. The “Term” of such employment shall begin as of the Effective
Date and continue until Mr. Livingston or the Company elects to terminate such employment, provided that at least 90 days notice
of such election shall be given by the party electing to terminate.

 

1.2               
Duties and Responsibilities. Beginning as of the Effective Date, Mr. Livingston shall be employed by the Company
and as its Chief Executive Officer and shall be nominated for re-election to the Company’s board of directors (the “Board”).
Mr. Livingston shall report to the Board. Mr. Livingston agrees to perform diligently and to the best of Mr. Livingston’s
abilities, and in a trustworthy, businesslike and efficient manner, the duties and services customarily associated with the position
of Chief Executive Officer and such other duties and responsibilities as may be agreed upon by Mr. Livingston and the Board. 

 

1.3               
Code of Ethics and Conduct. Mr. Livingston shall at all times comply with, and be subject to, such policies and procedures
as the Company may establish from time to time, including, without limitation, the Company’s Code of Ethics and Conduct (the
“Code of Ethics and Conduct”).

 

1.4               
Time and Efforts. Except as expressly approved by the Board, Mr. Livingston shall, during the period of Mr. Livingston’s
employment by the Company, devote Mr. Livingston’s full business time, energy, and best efforts to the business and affairs
of the Company and the Company Entities. Mr. Livingston may not engage, directly or indirectly, in any other business, investment,
or activity that interferes with Mr. Livingston’s performance of Mr. Livingston’s duties hereunder, is contrary to
the interest of the Company or any of its affiliated subsidiaries and divisions (each, a “Company Entity,” and
collectively with the Company, the “Company Entities”) or requires any significant portion of Mr. Livingston’s
business time. The foregoing notwithstanding, the parties recognize and agree that Mr. Livingston may engage in passive personal
investments and other business activities, including serving on other boards of directors, provided such activities do not conflict
with the business and affairs of the Company Entities or interfere with Mr. Livingston’s performance of his duties hereunder.
Mr. Livingston shall be permitted to retain any compensation received for service on any unaffiliated corporation’s board
of directors.

 

1.5               
Duty of Loyalty; Conflicts of Interest. Mr. Livingston acknowledges and agrees that he owes a fiduciary duty of loyalty,
fidelity, and allegiance to act at all times in the best interests of the Company and to do no act which would, directly or indirectly,
injure any such entity’s business, interests, or reputation. It is agreed that any direct or indirect interest in, connection
with, or benefit from any outside activities, particularly commercial activities, which interest might in any way adversely affect
any Company Entity, involves a possible conflict of interest. In keeping with Mr. Livingston’s fiduciary duties to the Company,
Mr. Livingston agrees that he shall not knowingly become involved in a conflict of interest with the Company, or upon discovery
thereof, allow such a conflict to continue. Moreover, Mr. Livingston shall not engage in any activity that might involve a possible
conflict of interest without first obtaining approval in accordance with the Company’s policies and procedures.

    	 

    	 

    

 

		ARTICLE	2:                     
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

 

2.1               
Base Salary. Mr. Livingston’s base salary during the Term shall be $400,000 per annum, of which $100,000 shall
be paid in Company equity grants and $300,000 shall be paid in cash in accordance with the Company’s standard payroll practice.
The annual equity grants will be awarded on the Effective Date and each anniversary thereof, and will vest in equal 12-month installments
on the 15th of each month thereafter. Mr. Livingston’s base salary shall be reviewed annually by the Compensation
Committee of the Board (the “Compensation Committee”) or the Board and may be increased, in the Compensation
Committee’s or the Board’s sole discretion, from time to time. Such increased base salary shall become the minimum
base salary under this Agreement and may not be decreased thereafter without the written consent of Mr. Livingston unless otherwise
permitted by this Agreement. 

 

2.2               
Annual Bonus. During the Term, Mr. Livingston shall participate in a bonus plan pursuant to which an annual cash
bonus shall be paid to Mr. Livingston in an amount to be determined by the Compensation Committee or the Board, which annual bonus
shall be targeted at 100% of Mr. Livingston’s then current base salary (the “Target Bonus”). Payment of
the bonus shall be made at the same time as bonuses are paid to other senior executive officers and shall be based on parameters,
including, without limitation, performance goals applicable to Mr. Livingston, and such parameters shall be approved by the Compensation
Committee or the Board. 

 

2.3               
Incentive Compensation. During the Term, Mr. Livingston shall participate in the Company’s long-term incentive
plans, including its 2013 Equity Participation Plan, on the terms established from time to time by the Compensation Committee or
the Board. The Company intends to grant awards to Mr. Livingston under its long-term incentive plans, the terms of which shall
be determined in good faith by the Compensation Committee and/or Board; provided that such grants shall be targeted at a nominal
face amount of 100% of Mr. Livingston’s then current base salary subject to appropriate performance and time based vesting.
For the initial grant (representing the first 3 years of such grants), Mr. Livingston shall be granted 400,000 shares of Company
stock, 12.5% of which shall vest on May 7, 2015, 12.5% of which shall vest on May 7, 2016, 12.5% of which shall vest on May 7,
2017, 12.5% of which shall vest on May 7, 2018, and 50% of which shall vest (if at all) immediately after the Company and its consolidated
subsidiaries attain a target mutually agreed by Mr. Livingston and the Compensation Committee for any fiscal year of the Company
from the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014 through the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, based on the Company’s year-end
audited financial statements.

 

2.4               
Change in Control. During the Term, in the event of a Change in Control (as defined below), Mr. Livingston shall
be entitled to receive a minimum lump sum cash payment equal to a pro rata Target Bonus for the year in which the Change in Control
occurs, which shall be based on the portion of such year that Mr. Livingston was employed by the Company prior to the effective
date of the Change in Control. Such payment, if any, shall be made no later than 60 days after the effective date of the Change
in Control. During the Term, in the event of a Change in Control, Mr. Livingston shall also be entitled to accelerated vesting
of all of his incentive awards that would otherwise vest after the date on which the Change in Control occurs, pursuant Section
3.9. For the avoidance of doubt, accelerated vesting will apply to Mr. Livingston’s performance-based incentive awards
which are not vested at the time of such Change of Control. For purposes of this Agreement, “Change in Control”
shall mean occurrence of any of the following after the date of this Agreement: (a) any merger, consolidation or business combination
in which the stockholders of the Company immediately prior to the merger, consolidation or business combination do not own at least
a majority of the outstanding equity interests of the surviving parent entity, or (b) the sale of all or substantially all of the
Company’s assets in a single transaction or a series of related transactions, other than a Company Liquidation (as defined
in Section 2.5).

 

2.5               
Company Liquidation. During the Term, in the event a Company Liquidation (as defined below) is commenced, Mr. Livingston
shall be entitled to accelerated vesting of all his incentive awards (other than performance-based incentive awards) that would
otherwise vest after the date on which the Company Liquidation commences. For the avoidance of doubt, accelerated vesting will
not apply to Mr. Livingston’s performance-based incentive awards which are not vested on such date. For purposes of this
Agreement, “Company Liquidation” shall mean the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company and/or
all or substantially all of its assets or operations, following approval by stockholders of the Company of a plan for such liquidation,
dissolution or winding up or upon or as a result of the appointment of a receiver, intervenor, conservator, trustee or similar
officer for the Company.

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2.6               
Vacation and Holidays. During the Term, Mr. Livingston shall be entitled to at least 4 weeks paid vacation in each
calendar year, or such greater amount of vacation as may be determined in accordance with the Company’s vacation policy as
in effect from time to time. Mr. Livingston shall also be entitled to all paid holidays given by the Company to its executives.

 

2.7               
Housing Allowance. During the Term, Mr. Livingston shall be entitled to a $2,000 monthly housing allowance, paid
in cash in accordance with the Company’s standard payroll practice. For the purposes of this Agreement, such monthly housing
allowance shall not be deemed included in Mr. Livingston’s base salary.

 

2.8               
Business Expenses; Travel. During the Term, the Company shall pay or reimburse Mr. Livingston within 90 days for
all actual, reasonable and customary business expenses incurred by Mr. Livingston in the course of his employment, plus travel
to and from New Jersey as agreed separately with the Company; provided that Mr. Livingston submits proper receipts and such business
and travel expenses are incurred and accounted for in accordance with the Company’s applicable policies and procedures.

 

2.9               
Employee Benefits. While employed by the Company, Mr. Livingston shall be allowed to participate, on the same basis
generally as other employees of the Company, in all general employee benefit plans and programs, which on the Effective Date or
thereafter are made available by the Company Entities to all or substantially all of the Company’s similarly situated employees.
Such benefits, plans, and programs may include, without limitation, medical, vision, and dental care, life insurance, disability
protection, qualified and non-qualified retirement plans, retiree medical plans and stock option, stock grant and stock purchase
programs, if any. Except as specifically provided in this Agreement, nothing in this Agreement is to be construed or interpreted
to increase or alter in any way the rights, participation, coverage, or benefits under such benefit plans or programs than provided
to similarly situated employees pursuant to the terms and conditions of such benefit plans and programs.

 

2.10           
Company Plans. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, it is specifically understood and agreed
that the Company Entities shall not be obligated to institute, maintain, or refrain from changing, amending, or discontinuing any
incentive, employee benefit or stock or stock option program or plan, so long as such actions are similarly applicable to covered
employees generally.

 

2.11           
Withholding. The Company shall withhold from any compensation, benefits, or amounts payable under this Agreement,
including dividend payments on unvested shares if applicable, all federal, state, city, or other taxes as may be required pursuant
to any law or governmental regulation or ruling.

 

		ARTICLE	3:                     
TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT AND EFFECTS OF SUCH TERMINATION

 

3.1               
Termination of Employment. Mr. Livingston’s employment with the Company shall be terminated prior to the end
of the Term: (i) upon Mr. Livingston’s death, (ii) upon Mr. Livingston’s Retirement (as defined below), (iii) upon
Mr. Livingston’s Permanent Disability (as defined below), (iv) at any time by the Company upon written notice to Mr. Livingston,
whether for Company Cause (as defined below) or not, (v) by Mr. Livingston upon 90 days written notice to the Company, whether
for Good Reason (as defined below) or not, or (vi) upon the completion of a Company Liquidation.

 

(i)                  
“Retirement” means Mr. Livingston’s retirement at or after normal retirement age (either voluntarily or
pursuant to the Company’s retirement policy).

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(ii)                
“Permanent Disability” means Mr. Livingston’s physical or mental incapacity to perform his usual duties
with such condition likely to remain continuously and permanently as determined by the Board in good faith. 

 

(iii)               
“Company Cause” means termination of Mr. Livingston’s employment by the Company for any of the following:
(a) Mr. Livingston’s gross negligence or willful misconduct in the performance of the duties and services required of Mr.
Livingston pursuant to this Agreement, (b) Mr. Livingston’s final conviction of, or plea of guilty or nolo contendere to,
a felony or Mr. Livingston engaging in fraudulent or criminal activity relating to the scope of Mr. Livingston’s employment
(whether or not prosecuted), (c) a material violation of the Code of Ethics and Conduct, (d) Mr. Livingston’s breach
of any material provision of this Agreement, provided that Mr. Livingston receives written notice from the Company and is afforded
a reasonable opportunity (at least 30 days) to cure such breach, (e) any continuing or repeated failure to perform the duties
as requested in writing by the Board, provided Mr. Livingston is afforded a reasonable opportunity (at least 30 days) to cure such
breach, (f) the commission of a felony or crime involving moral turpitude, or (g) conduct which brings the Company Entities into
public disgrace or disrepute in any material respect. Determination as to whether or not Company Cause exists for termination of
Mr. Livingston’s employment will be made by the Board in good faith. 

 

(iv)              
“Good Reason” means a termination of employment by Mr. Livingston because of: (a) the assignment to Mr. Livingston
of any significant duties materially inconsistent with Mr. Livingston’s status as Chief Executive Office of the Company,
or a reduction in the nature of Mr. Livingston’s responsibilities or Mr. Livingston’s status, in each case which results
in a material diminution of Mr. Livingston’s authority, duties or responsibilities, or (b) a breach by the Company of any
material provision of this Agreement. For the avoidance of doubt, the commencement of a Company Liquidation does not, by itself,
constitute Good Reason. In order for Mr. Livingston to terminate for Good Reason, (a) Mr. Livingston must notify the Company in
writing within 90 days of the event constituting Good Reason, (b) the event must remain uncorrected by the Company for 30 days
following such notice (the “Notice Period”), and (c) such termination must occur within 90 days after the expiration
of the Notice Period. An across-the-board base salary and/or Target Bonus opportunity reduction and, in the case of base salary,
not below the initial base salary set forth in Section 2.1, similarly affecting Mr. Livingston and all other executives
of the Company shall not constitute a material breach of this Agreement by the Company. 

 

3.2               
Retirement, Termination with Company Cause, and Resignation Without Good Reason. If Mr. Livingston’s employment
is terminated by reason of Retirement, Company Cause, or resignation without Good Reason (including, without limitation, Mr. Livingston’s
election to terminate the Term as provided in Section 1.1), then Mr. Livingston shall be entitled to each of the following:

 

(i)                  
Any base salary earned, accrued or owing to Mr. Livingston through the effective date of termination of employment, 

 

(ii)                
Reimbursement for all reasonable and customary business expenses incurred by Mr. Livingston in performing services for the Company
Entities prior to the effective date of termination of employment, 

 

(iii)               
Payment equal to the amount of any accrued, but unused, vacation time, and 

 

(iv)              
Any individual bonuses or individual incentive compensation not yet paid, but due and payable under the Company’s plans for
years prior to the year of Mr. Livingston’s termination of employment.

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Subject to Sections 3.13
and 4.2, such payments shall be made to Mr. Livingston on the date that is 60 days after the effective date of termination
of employment; provided that Mr. Livingston has executed a release, in substantially the form attached hereto as Annex A
(the “Severance Agreement and Release”) no later than 7 days prior to such payment date. Mr. Livingston shall
not be entitled to (1) any bonus or incentive compensation for the year in which he terminates employment unless specifically granted
by the Compensation Committee or Board, or (2) any other payments or benefits by or on behalf of the Company Entities except for
those which may be payable pursuant to the terms of the Company Entities’ employee benefit plans, stock, option, or other
equity plans or the applicable agreements underlying such plans. Except for (i) through (iv) above, it is specifically understood
that all future compensation to which Mr. Livingston is entitled and all future benefits for which Mr. Livingston is eligible,
shall cease and terminate as of the effective date of termination of employment.

 

3.3               
Resignation for Good Reason and Termination Without Company Cause. Subject to Sections 3.13 and 4.2,
if Mr. Livingston’s employment is terminated by reason of resignation for Good Reason, or termination by the Company for
any reason (including, without limitation, the Company’s election to terminate the Term as provided in Section 1.1),
other than Company Cause, then Mr. Livingston shall be entitled to each of the following: 

 

(i)                  
The amounts described in clauses (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) of Section 3.2 paid as described in Section 3.2,

 

(ii)                
A cash amount equal to the sum of: (a) 100% of Mr. Livingston’s base salary in effect as of the effective date of termination
of employment, plus (b) a pro rata portion of the Target Bonus for the year in which such termination occurs, which portion shall
be based on the portion of such year that Mr. Livingston was employed by the Company prior to the effective date of the termination
of employment and shall only be paid to the extent such bonus would be paid at the end of the year in which such termination of
employment occurs, based on achievement of the applicable parameters, including performance goals, set pursuant to Section 2.2
and attained at the time of such termination of employment. Except as otherwise provided herein, such compensation shall be paid
to Mr. Livingston in equal installments in accordance with the Company’s customary payroll practices during the period commencing
on the effective date of termination of employment and ending on the earlier to occur of (A) the first anniversary of the effective
date of termination of employment or (B) the date Mr. Livingston violates any of the covenants set forth in the Noncompetition
Agreement (as defined below).

 

(iii)               
Accelerated vesting of that portion of his incentive awards that would otherwise vest during the 12 months following the termination
of employment. For the avoidance of doubt, accelerated vesting shall not apply to Mr. Livingston’s performance-based incentive
awards which are not vested at the time Mr. Livingston’s employment is terminated by Mr. Livingston for Good Reason or by
the Company without Company Cause. 

 

(iv)              
To the extent permitted by applicable law and the insurance and benefits policies to which Mr. Livingston is entitled to participate
(collectively, “Benefit Plans”), the Company shall maintain Mr. Livingston’s paid coverage for health
insurance (through the payment of Mr. Livingston’s COBRA premiums) and other dental and life insurance benefits for the earlier
to occur of: (a) Mr. Livingston obtaining the age of 65, (b) the date another employer provides Mr. Livingston benefits substantially
comparable to the benefits provided by the above-referenced Benefit Plans, or (c) the 12-month anniversary of the effective date
of Mr. Livingston’s termination of employment. During the applicable period of coverage described in the foregoing sentence,
Mr. Livingston shall be entitled to benefits on substantially the same basis as would have otherwise been provided had Mr. Livingston
not been terminated and the Company will have no obligation to pay any benefits to, or premiums on behalf of, Mr. Livingston after
such period ends. To the extent that such benefits are available under the above-referenced Benefit Plans and Mr. Livingston had
such coverage immediately prior to termination of employment, such continuation of benefits for Mr. Livingston shall also cover
Mr. Livingston’s dependents for so long as Mr. Livingston is receiving benefits under this clause (iv).

 

3.4               
Death and Permanent Disability. Subject to Sections 3.13 and 4.2, if Mr. Livingston’s employment
is terminated by reason of Death or Permanent Disability, Mr. Livingston’s estate, in the case of death, or Mr. Livingston
(or his legal guardian), in the case of Permanent Disability, shall be entitled to payment of (i) the amounts described in clauses
(i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) of Section 3.2 paid as described in Section 3.2, plus (ii) a pro rata portion of the Target
Bonus for the year in which such termination occurs, which portion shall be based on the portion of such year that Mr. Livingston
was employed by the Company prior to the effective date of the termination of employment, paid on the date that is 60 days after
the effective date of termination of employment; provided that, in the case of Permanent Disability and Mr. Livingston’s
health permitting, Mr. Livingston has executed the Severance Agreement and Release no later than 7 days prior to such payment date.

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3.5               
Company Liquidation. Subject to Sections 3.13 and 4.2, if Mr. Livingston’s employment is terminated
by reason of a Company Liquidation, Mr. Livingston shall be entitled to payment of (i) the amounts described in clauses (i), (ii)
and (iv) of Section 3.3 paid as described in Section 3.3; provided that Mr. Livingston has executed a Severance Agreement
and Release no later than 7 days prior to the first date of any such payments.

 

3.6               
Conditions to Severance Benefits. The severance benefit paid and provided to Mr. Livingston pursuant to Section 3.3,
Section 3.5 and/or Section 3.9 shall be in consideration of Mr. Livingston’s continuing obligations under this
Agreement after termination of employment, including, without limitation, Mr. Livingston’s obligations under the Noncompetition
Agreement (as defined below). Further, as a condition to the receipt of such severance benefit, the Company shall require Mr. Livingston
to first execute the Severance Agreement and Release. The performance of the Company’s obligations under Section 3.3,
Section 3.5 and/or Section 3.9 and the receipt of the severance benefit provided thereunder by Mr. Livingston shall
constitute full settlement of all such claims and causes of action. Mr. Livingston shall not be under any duty or obligation to
seek or accept other employment following a termination of employment pursuant to which a severance benefit payment or benefit
under Section 3.3, Section 3.5 and/or Section 3.9 is owing and the amounts and benefits due Mr. Livingston
pursuant to Section 3.3, Section 3.5 and/or Section 3.9 shall not be reduced or suspended, except as otherwise
provided, if Mr. Livingston accepts subsequent employment or earns any amounts as a self-employed individual, provided, however
that in the event Mr. Livingston breaches any of Mr. Livingston’s obligations under the Noncompetition Agreement, then, in
addition to the Company’s right to specific performance pursuant to the Noncompetition Agreement or any other rights that
the Company may have under this Agreement or otherwise, the Company shall have the right to terminate payment of any amounts or
benefits to which Mr. Livingston would otherwise be entitled pursuant to Section 3.3, Section 3.5 and/or Section
3.9. 

 

3.7               
Limitation of Remedies. Mr. Livingston’s rights under Article 3 are Mr. Livingston’s sole and
exclusive rights against the Company Entities and any affiliate of the Company, and the Company Entities’ sole and exclusive
liability to Mr. Livingston under this Agreement, whether such claim is based in contract, tort or otherwise, for the termination
of his employment relationship with the Company. 

 

3.8               
Resolution of Disputes; No Waiver. Mr. Livingston agrees that all disputes relating to Mr. Livingston’s employment
or termination of employment shall be resolved as provided in Section 4.5 hereof; provided, however, that decisions as to
whether and as of what date Mr. Livingston has become Permanently Disabled shall be limited to whether such decision was reached
in good faith. Nothing contained in this Article 3 shall be construed to be a waiver by Mr. Livingston of any benefits accrued
for or due Mr. Livingston under any employee benefit plan (as such term is defined in the Employee Retirement Income Security Act
of 1974, as amended) maintained by the Company except that Mr. Livingston shall not be entitled to any severance benefits pursuant
to any severance plan or program of the Company except as outlined in this Agreement. 

 

3.9               
Vesting of Awards. Subject to Section 4.2, with respect to any equity awards or grants made by the Company
and notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in any applicable plan, program or agreement: (a) upon a Change in Control pursuant
to Section 2.4, all stock options, restricted stock and other equity rights held by Mr. Livingston will become fully vested
and/or exercisable, as the case may be, on the date on which such termination of employment occurs, and all stock options held
by Mr. Livingston shall remain exercisable until the earlier to occur of: (i) the expiration date of the applicable option term
or (ii) the date that is 90 days after Mr. Livingston’s termination date; (b) upon a Company Liquidation pursuant to Section
2.5, all non-performance based stock options, restricted stock and other equity rights held by Mr. Livingston will become fully
vested and/or exercisable, as the case may be, on the date on which such Company Liquidation commences, and all non-performance
based stock options held by Mr. Livingston shall remain exercisable until the earlier to occur of: (i) the expiration date of the
applicable option term, (ii) the date that is 90 days after the date such Company Liquidation commences or (iii) the date that
such Company Liquidation is completed; and (c) upon termination of Mr. Livingston’s employment by Mr. Livingston for Good
Reason or by the Company without Company Cause, that portion of Mr. Livingston’s non-performance based stock options, restricted
stock and other equity rights held by Mr. Livingston, as the case may be, that would otherwise vest during the 12 months following
the termination of employment, will become vested and/or exercisable, and all such vested stock options held by Mr. Livingston
shall remain exercisable until the earlier to occur of: (i) the expiration date of the applicable option term or (ii) the date
that is 90 days after Mr. Livingston’s termination date. For the avoidance of doubt, accelerated vesting shall not
apply to Mr. Livingston’s performance-based incentive awards which are not vested at the time a Company Liquidation commences
or of termination of employment by Mr. Livingston for Good Reason or by the Company without Company Cause, but shall apply
to Mr. Livingston’s performance-based incentive awards which are not vested at the time of a Change of Control.

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For example,
if (i) Mr. Livingston terminated his employment for Good Reason 6 months after the initial grant of Mr. Livingston’s incentive
awards described in Section 2.3 and 6 months after his employment commenced under this Agreement, and (ii) on such termination
date the performance targets mutually agreed by Mr. Livingston and the Compensation Committee were not yet met, then the 12.5%
of unvested stock that would have vested on the one-year anniversary of such initial grant would immediately vest on such termination
date (subject to the limitations imposed by Section 4.2), and all the remaining stock comprising Mr. Livingston’s
initial grant pursuant to Section 2.3 would immediately be cancelled and/or forfeited.

 

3.10           
Continuing Obligations. Termination of the employment relationship does not terminate those obligations imposed by
this Agreement, which are continuing obligations, including, without limitation, Mr. Livingston’s obligations under the Noncompetition
Agreement (as defined below) pursuant to Section 4.1. 

 

3.11           
Effects of Termination; Payment of Taxes. The payment of any monies to Mr. Livingston under this Agreement after
the date of termination of employment does not constitute an offer or a continuation of employment of Mr. Livingston. In no event
shall Mr. Livingston represent or hold himself out to be an employee of any Company Entity after the effective date of termination
of employment. Except where the Company is lawfully required to withhold any federal, state, or local taxes, Mr. Livingston shall
be responsible for any and all federal, state, or local taxes that arise out of any payments to Mr. Livingston hereunder. 

 

3.12           
Continuing Assistance. During any period during which any monies are being paid to Mr. Livingston under this Agreement
after the effective date of termination of employment, Mr. Livingston shall provide to any Company Entity reasonable levels of
assistance in answering questions concerning the business of any Company Entity, transition of responsibility, or litigation, provided
that all out of pocket expenses of Mr. Livingston reasonably incurred in connection with such assistance are fully and promptly
reimbursed and that any such assistance after the Non-Compete Period (as defined below) shall not interfere or conflict with the
obligations which Mr. Livingston may owe to any other employer.

 

3.13           
Timing of Payments. For any period during which Mr. Livingston is a “specified employee” under Regulations
Section 1.409A-1(b)(i), any compensation paid to Mr. Livingston under this Article 3 shall be paid in accordance with the
following payment schedule: (1) one-half of such compensation shall be paid to Mr. Livingston on the earlier of (i) the 6-month
anniversary (“Six Month Payment Date”) of the effective date of termination of employment, and (ii) Mr. Livingston’s
death; and (2) the remaining balance of such compensation shall be paid to Mr. Livingston in equal installments in accordance with
the Company’s customary payroll practices commencing the first pay period after the Six Month Payment Date and ending on
the earlier to occur of (A) the first anniversary of the effective date of such termination of employment, or (B) the date Mr.
Livingston breaches any provision of the Noncompetition Agreement.

 

		ARTICLE	4:                     
MISCELLANEOUS:

 

4.1               
Reaffirmation of Noncompetition, Nonsolicitation and Confidential Information Agreement. In consideration of the
benefits conferred by this Agreement and as an inducement to enter into this Agreement and accept the obligations hereunder, Mr.
Livingston and the Company reaffirm in all respects their respective obligations under that certain Noncompetition, Nonsolicitation
and Confidential Information Agreement dated May 13, 2014 (the “Noncompetition Agreement”).

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4.2               
Limitations on Payments. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement:

 

		(i)	Each payment under this Agreement is intended to be exempt from,
or compliant with, the provisions of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”),
and this Agreement shall be interpreted in a manner consistent with this intention. In no event, however, shall the Company have
liability relating to the failure or alleged failure of any payment under this Agreement to comply with, or be exempt from, the
requirements of Section 409A. For purposes of this Agreement, all references to “termination of employment” and correlative
phrases shall be construed to require a “separation from service” (as defined in Section 1.409A-1(h) of the Treasury
Regulations after giving effect to the presumptions contained therein). Additionally, Mr. Livingston’s right to receive any
installment payments pursuant to this Agreement will be treated as a right to receive a series of separate and distinct payments.

 

		(ii)	The Company shall, to the extent necessary, modify the timing
of delivery of compensation and/or benefits to Mr. Livingston if it is determined that the timing would result in the additional
tax and/or interest and/or penalties assessed to Mr. Livingston under Section 409A.

 

		(iii)	In the event that the separation benefits and other benefits
provided for in this Agreement or otherwise payable to Mr. Livingston constitute “parachute payments” within the meaning
of Section 280G of the Code and, but for this Section 4.2, would be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of
the Code, then such payments will either be (a) delivered in full, or (b) delivered as to such lesser extent which would result
in no portion of such benefits being subject to the excise tax under Section 4999, whichever of the foregoing amounts, taking into
account applicable federal, state and local income taxes and the excise tax imposed by Section 4999, results in the receipt by
Mr. Livingston in the greatest amount of benefits on an after-tax basis. If a reduction in Mr. Livingston’s payments is necessary
so that no portion is subject to the excise tax under Section 4999, the reduction shall occur in the following order: (1) reduction
of the cash payments; (2) cancellation of awards granted “contingent on a change in ownership or control” within the
meaning of Section 280G; (3) cancellation of accelerated vesting of equity awards; and (4) reduction of continued employee benefits.
In the event that acceleration of vesting of equity award compensation is to be reduced, such acceleration of vesting shall be
cancelled in the reverse order of the date of grant. In no event will Mr. Livingston have any discretion with respect to the ordering
of payment reductions.

 

4.3               
Dividends. Other than with respect to performance-based incentive awards, all shares awarded pursuant to this Agreement,
whether vested or unvested, shall be entitled to cash dividends to the same extent as shares held by other record holders. With
respect to Mr. Livingston’s performance-based incentive awards which are not vested at the time of any record date for a
cash dividend or other cash distribution, dividend payments and distributions shall be held by the Company and paid to Mr. Livingston
only if and when such performance-based incentive awards vest.

 

4.4               
Notices. For purposes of this Agreement, notices and all other communications provided for herein shall be in writing
and shall be deemed to have been duly given when received by or tendered to Mr. Livingston or the Company, as applicable, by pre-paid
courier or by United States registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, addressed as follows: 

 

If to the Company:

 

Ambassadors Group, Inc.

Attention: Legal/Risk

2001 S. Flint Road

Spokane, WA 99224

 

If to Mr. Livingston:
To his last known personal residence

    	8

    	 

    

 

4.5               
Governing Law; Arbitration. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the
State of Washington, without reference to principles of conflict of laws. Any controversy relating to this Agreement shall be settled
by binding arbitration according to the applicable employment dispute resolution rules of the American Arbitration Association
in Spokane, Washington. To the extent required by law, the Company agrees to pay all costs, including the arbitrator’s fees,
which are peculiar to the arbitration process.

 

4.6               
No Waiver. No failure by either party hereto at any time to give notice of any breach by the other party of, or to
require compliance with, any condition or provision of this Agreement shall be deemed a waiver of similar or dissimilar provisions
or conditions at the same or at any prior or subsequent time. 

 

4.7               
Assignment. Neither party may assign, sell, transfer, delegate or otherwise dispose of any rights or obligations
under this Agreement without the prior written consent of the other party. 

 

4.8               
Voluntary Agreement. Mr. Livingston expressly acknowledges that he has voluntarily executed this Agreement and that
he has had the opportunity to be represented and advised by counsel concerning the terms and conditions of this Agreement as well
as his execution thereof.

 

4.9               
Entire Agreement. The Prior Agreement is hereby terminated as of the Effective Date; provided that any equity awards
previously made thereunder shall not terminate or be cancelled and the vesting of such awards shall remain unchanged. This Agreement
is intended by the parties to be the complete, exclusive and final expression of the Company’s and Mr. Livingston’s
agreement with respect to the subject matters hereof and supersedes, and may not be contradicted by, or modified or supplemented
by, evidence of any prior or contemporaneous agreement as to the subject matter hereof, and no extrinsic evidence whatsoever may
be introduced to vary the terms of this Agreement. No waiver of any of the provisions of this Agreement, whether by conduct or
otherwise, in any one or more instances, shall be deemed or construed as a further, continuing or subsequent waiver of any such
provision or as a waiver of any other provision of this Agreement. No failure to exercise and no delay in exercising any right,
remedy or power hereunder shall preclude any other or further exercise of any other right, remedy or power provided herein or by
law or in equity. The Company and Mr. Livingston expressly agree that (i) this Agreement shall survive any termination or cessation
of Mr. Livingston’s employment by the Company or by Mr. Livingston, and (ii) this Agreement may not be altered, amended,
changed, terminated or modified in any respect except by a written instrument clearly expressing the intent to so modify this Agreement
signed by Mr. Livingston and an officer or director of the Company.

 

4.10           
Severability. If any term, provision, covenant or condition of this Agreement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction
to exceed the limitations permitted by applicable law, as determined by such court in such action, then the provisions will be
deemed reformed to the maximum limitations permitted by applicable law and the parties hereby expressly acknowledge their desire
that in such event such action be taken. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company and Mr. Livingston further agree that if any
term, provision, covenant or condition of this Agreement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, void or unenforceable,
the remainder of the provisions shall remain in full force and effect and in no way shall be affected, impaired or invalidated..

 

4.11           
Descriptive Headings. Descriptive headings contained herein are for reference only and in no way define, limit, extend
or describe the scope of this Agreement or any provisions thereof.

 

4.12           
Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, with each an original, and with both together
constituting one and the same agreement.

 

[Signature Page Follows]

    	9

    	 

    

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF,
the Company and Mr. Livingston have duly executed this Agreement in multiple originals to be effective as of the Effective Date.

 

	 	EMPLOYER
	 	 	 
	 	AMBASSADORS GROUP, INC.
	 	 	 
	 	By:	/S/ Lisa O. Rapuano

	 	Name:	Lisa O. Rapuano
	 	Title:	Chairman of the Board of Directors

	 	 	 
	 	 	 
	 	EMPLOYEE
	 	 	 
	 	/s/ Philip B. Livingston 
	 	Philip B. Livingston

 

    	10

    	 

    

 

Annex
A

 

SEPARATION
OF EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT AND GENERAL RELEASE

 

THIS SEPARATION OF
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT AND GENERAL RELEASE (the “Agreement”) is made as of this _____ day of ___________, _____,
by and between Ambassadors Group, Inc. (the “Company”) and Philip B. Livingston (“Executive”).

 

WHEREAS, the Company
employs Executive pursuant to the terms and conditions set forth in that certain Employment Agreement dated as of ___________,
2014 between Executive and the Company (as amended from time to time, the “Employment Agreement”), which provides for
certain payments and benefits in the event that Executive’s employment is terminated under certain circumstances; and

 

WHEREAS, an express
condition of Executive’s entitlement to the payments and benefits under the Employment Agreement is the execution of a general
release in the form set forth below; and

 

WHEREAS, Executive
and the Company mutually desire to terminate Executive’s employment effective _____________, 20__ (“Date of Termination”).

 

NOW, THEREFORE, IT
IS HEREBY AGREED by and between Executive and the Company as follows:

 

1.                  
(a)Executive, for and in consideration of the commitments of the Company as set forth in paragraph 5 of this Agreement,
and intending to be legally bound, does hereby REMISE, RELEASE AND FOREVER DISCHARGE the Company, its affiliates, predecessors,
subsidiaries and parents, and their present or former officers, directors, shareholders, employees, and agents, and its and their
respective successors, assigns, heirs, executors, and administrators and the current and former trustees or administrators of any
pension or other benefit plan applicable to the employees or former employees of the Company (collectively, “Releasees”)
from all causes of action, suits, debts, claims and demands whatsoever in law or in equity, which Executive ever had, now has,
or hereafter may have, whether known or unknown, or which Executive’s heirs, executors, or administrators may have, by reason
of any matter, cause or thing whatsoever, from any time prior to the date of this Agreement, and particularly, but without limitation
of the foregoing general terms, any claims arising from or relating in any way to Executive’s employment relationship with
the Company, the terms and conditions of that employment relationship, and the termination of that employment relationship, including,
but not limited to, any claims arising under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Older Workers Benefit Protection Act,
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, the Employee
Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, and any other claims under any federal, state or local common law, statutory, or regulatory
provision, now or hereafter recognized, and any claims for attorneys’ fees and costs. This Agreement is effective without
regard to the legal nature of the claims raised and without regard to whether any such claims are based upon tort, equity, implied
or express contract or discrimination of any sort.

 

(b)              
To the fullest extent permitted by law, and subject to the provisions of paragraph 10
and paragraph 12 below, Executive represents and affirms that Executive has not filed or caused to be filed on Executive’s
behalf any charge, complaint or claim for relief against the Company or any Releasee and, to the best of Executive’s knowledge
and belief, no outstanding charges, complaints or claims for relief have been filed or asserted against the Company or any Releasee
on Executive’s behalf; and Executive has not reported any improper, unethical or illegal conduct or activities to any supervisor,
manager, department head, human resources representative, agent or other representative of the Company or any Releasee, to any
member of the Company’s or any Releasee’s legal or compliance departments, or to the ethics hotline, and has no knowledge
of any such improper, unethical or illegal conduct or activities. In the event that there is outstanding any such charge, complaint
or claim for relief, Executive agrees to seek its immediate withdrawal and dismissal with prejudice. In the event that for any
reason said charge, complaint or claim for relief cannot be withdrawn, Executive shall not voluntarily testify, provide documents
or otherwise participate in any investigation or litigation arising therefrom or associated therewith and shall execute such other
papers or documents as the Company’s counsel determines may be necessary to have said charge, complaint or claim for relief
dismissed with prejudice. Nothing herein shall prevent Executive from testifying in any cause of action when required to do so
by process of law. Executive shall promptly inform the Company if called upon to testify.

    	A-1

    	 

    

 

(c)               
Executive does not waive any right to file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity
Commission (“EEOC”) or participate in an investigation or proceeding conducted by the EEOC, but explicitly waives
any right to file a personal lawsuit or receive monetary damages that the EEOC might recover if said charge results in an EEOC
lawsuit against the Company or Releasees.

 

2.                  
In consideration of the Company’s agreements as set forth in paragraph 5 herein, Executive agrees to reaffirm Executive’s
obligations described in that certain Noncompetition, Nonsolicitation and Confidential Information Agreement dated May 13, 2014
(the “Noncompetition Agreement”).

 

3.                  
Executive further agrees and recognizes that Executive has permanently and irrevocably severed Executive’s employment
relationship with the Company, that Executive shall not seek employment with the Company or any affiliated entity at any time in
the future, and that the Company has no obligation to employ him in the future.

 

4.                  
Executive further agrees that Executive will not disparage or subvert the Company or any Releasee, or make any statement
reflecting negatively on the Company, its affiliated corporations or entities, or any of their officers, directors, employees,
agents or representatives, including, but not limited to, any matters relating to the operation or management of the Company or
any Releasee, Executive’s employment and the termination of Executive’s employment, irrespective of the truthfulness
or falsity of such statement.

 

5.                  
In consideration for Executive’s promises, as set forth herein, the Company agrees to pay or provide to or for Executive
the payments and benefits described in the Employment Agreement, the provisions of which are incorporated herein by reference.
Except as set forth in this Agreement, it is expressly agreed and understood that Releasees do not have, and will not have, any
obligations to provide Executive at any time in the future with any payments, benefits or considerations other than those recited
in this paragraph, or those required by law, other than under the terms of any benefit plans which provide benefits or payments
to former employees according to their terms.

 

6.                  
Executive understands and agrees that the payments, benefits and agreements provided in this Agreement are being provided
to him in consideration for Executive’s acceptance and execution of, and in reliance upon Executive’s representations
in, this Agreement. Executive acknowledges that if Executive had not executed this Agreement containing a release of all claims
against the Releasees, Executive would not have been entitled to the payments and benefits set forth in the Employment Agreement.

 

7.                  
Executive acknowledges and agrees that this Agreement and the Employment Agreement supersede any employment agreement or
offer letter Executive has with the Company or any Releasee. To the extent Executive has entered into any other enforceable written
agreement with the Company or any Releasee that contains provisions that are outside the scope of this Agreement and the Employment
Agreement and are not in direct conflict with the provisions in this Agreement or the Employment Agreement, the terms in this Agreement
and the Employment Agreement shall not supercede, but shall be in addition to, any other such agreement. Except as set forth expressly
herein, no promises or representations have been made to Executive in connection with the termination of Executive’s Employment
Agreement, if any, or offer letter, if any, with the Company, or the terms of this Agreement.

 

8.                  
Executive agrees not to disclose the terms of this Agreement or the Employment Agreement to anyone, except Executive’s
spouse, attorney and, as necessary, tax/financial advisor. It is expressly understood that any violation of the confidentiality
obligation imposed hereunder constitutes a material breach of this Agreement.

    	A-2

    	 

    

 

9.                  
Executive represents that (i) Executive does not, without the Company’s prior written consent, presently have in Executive’s
possession any records and business documents, whether on computer or hard copy, and other materials (including but not limited
to computer disks and tapes, computer programs and software, office keys, correspondence, files, customer lists, technical information,
customer information, pricing information, business strategies and plans, sales records and all copies thereof) (collectively,
the “Corporate Records”) provided by the Company and/or its predecessors, subsidiaries or affiliates or obtained
as a result of Executive’s prior employment with the Company and/or its predecessors, subsidiaries or affiliates, or created
by Executive while employed by or rendering services to the Company and/or its predecessors, subsidiaries or affiliates and (ii)
Executive has not destroyed or caused to be destroyed any Corporate Records (other than in accordance with the Company’s
normal document retention policies). Executive acknowledges that all such Corporate Records are the property of the Company and
agrees that Executive will return to the Company in good condition any and all Corporate Records that may be held by Executive
or may in the future come into Executive’s possession or control. In addition, Executive shall promptly return to the Company
in good condition any and all Company owned equipment or property, including, but not limited to, automobiles, personal data assistants,
facsimile machines, copy machines, pagers, credit cards, cellular telephone equipment, business cards, laptops, computers, and
any other items requested by the Company. As of the Date of Termination, the Company will make arrangements to remove, terminate
or transfer any and all business communication lines including network access, cellular phone, fax line and other business numbers.

 

10.               
Nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit or restrict Executive from: (i) making any disclosure of information required
by law; (ii) providing information to, or testifying or otherwise assisting in any investigation or proceeding brought by,
any federal regulatory or law enforcement agency or legislative body, any self-regulatory organization, or the Company’s
designated legal, compliance or human resources officers; or (iii) filing, testifying, participating in or otherwise assisting
in a proceeding relating to an alleged violation of any federal, state or municipal law relating to fraud, or any rule or regulation
of the Securities and Exchange Commission or any self-regulatory organization.

 

11.               
The parties agree and acknowledge that the agreement by the Company described herein, and the settlement and termination
of any asserted or unasserted claims against the Releasees, are not and shall not be construed to be an admission of any violation
of any federal, state or local statute or regulation, or of any duty owed by any of the Releasees to Executive.

 

12.               
Executive agrees and recognizes that should Executive breach any of the obligations or covenants set forth in this Agreement,
the Company will have no further obligation to provide Executive with the consideration set forth herein, and will have the right
to seek repayment of all consideration paid up to the time of any such breach. Further, Executive acknowledges in the event of
a breach of this Agreement, Releasees may seek any and all appropriate relief for any such breach, including equitable relief and/or
money damages, attorneys’ fees and costs.

 

13.               
Executive further agrees that the Company shall be entitled to preliminary and permanent injunctive relief, without the
necessity of proving actual damages, as well as to an equitable accounting of all earnings, profits and other benefits arising
from any violations of this Agreement, which rights shall be cumulative and in addition to any other rights or remedies to which
the Company may be entitled.

 

14.               
This Agreement and the obligations of the parties hereunder shall be construed, interpreted and enforced in accordance with
the laws of the State of Washington, without reference to principles of conflict of laws.

 

15.               
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Washington, without reference
to principles of conflict of laws.

 

16.               
Executive certifies and acknowledges as follows:

    	A-3

    	 

    

 

(a)               
That Executive has read the terms of this Agreement, and that Executive understands its terms
and effects, including the fact that Executive has agreed to RELEASE AND FOREVER DISCHARGE the Releasees from any legal action
arising out of Executive’s employment relationship with the Company and the termination of that employment relationship;
and

 

(b)              
That Executive has signed this Agreement voluntarily and knowingly in exchange for the consideration
described herein, which Executive acknowledges is adequate and satisfactory to him and which Executive acknowledges is in addition
to any other benefits to which Executive is otherwise entitled; and

 

(c)               
That Executive has been and is hereby advised in writing to consult with an attorney prior
to signing this Agreement; and

 

(d)              
That Executive does not waive rights or claims that may arise after the date this Agreement
is executed; and

 

(e)               
That the Company has provided Executive with a period of twenty-one (21) days within which
to consider this Agreement (including, without limitation, Executive’s release and waiver of any and all claims under the
Age Discrimination In Employment Act), and that Executive has signed on the date indicated below after concluding that this Separation
of Employment Agreement and General Release is satisfactory to Executive; and

 

(f)               
Executive acknowledges that this Agreement may be revoked by him within seven (7) days after
execution, and it shall not become effective until the expiration of such seven (7) day revocation period. In the event of a timely
revocation by Executive, this Agreement will be deemed null and void and the Company will have no obligations hereunder.

 

[SIGNATURE PAGE
FOLLOWS]

    	A-4

    	 

    

 

Intending to be legally
bound hereby, Executive and the Company executed the foregoing Separation of Employment Agreement and General Release this ______
day of ______________, _____.

 

                                                                                                    Witness:                                                                                                    

PHILIP B. LIVINGSTON

 

AMBASSADORS GROUP, INC.

 

By:                                                                                              Witness:                                                                                                    

Name:                                                                                          

Title:                                                                                            

 

    	A-5Exhibit 10.1

 

Execution Version

 

SIXTH AMENDMENT TO CREDIT AGREEMENT

 

THIS SIXTH AMENDMENT TO CREDIT AGREEMENT (hereinafter called this “Amendment”) is entered into as of March 24, 2015, by and among MIDSTATES PETROLEUM COMPANY, INC., a Delaware corporation (the “Parent”), MIDSTATES PETROLEUM COMPANY LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the “Borrower”), the Lenders party hereto, and SUNTRUST BANK, as administrative agent for the Lenders (in such capacity, together with its successors in such capacity, the “Administrative Agent”), as an Issuing Lender and as Swing Line Lender.

 

WITNESSETH:

 

WHEREAS, Parent, Borrower, Administrative Agent, the Issuing Lender, the Swing Line Lender and the lenders party thereto (the “Lenders”) are parties to that certain Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of June 8, 2012 (as amended, restated, modified or supplemented from time to time prior to the date hereof, the “Credit Agreement”), whereby the Lenders have agreed to make certain loans to Borrower upon the terms and conditions set forth therein;

 

WHEREAS, Administrative Agent has recommended, and Borrower and the Required Lenders have agreed, that the Conforming Borrowing Base be maintained at an amount equal to $525,000,000;

 

WHEREAS, the Borrower, as seller, and Pintail WI LLC, as buyer, have entered into a certain Purchase and Sale Agreement dated as of March 5, 2015, pursuant to which Borrower will sell, transfer, convey or otherwise dispose of certain of its oil and gas properties (the “DeQuincy Assets”) in Beauregard and Calcasieu Parishes, Louisiana (the disposition thereof, the “DeQuincy Disposition”);

 

WHEREAS, Borrower has asked Administrative Agent, Issuing Lender and the Lenders to amend the Credit Agreement as described herein; and

 

WHEREAS, Administrative Agent, Issuing Lender and the Lenders are willing to amend the Credit Agreement as requested by Borrower, subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements herein contained, the parties to this Amendment hereby agree as follows:

 

Section 1.                                           Terms Defined in Credit Agreement.  As used in this Amendment, except as may otherwise be provided herein, all capitalized terms that are defined in the Credit Agreement (as amended hereby) shall have the same meaning herein as therein defined, all of such terms and their definitions being incorporated herein by reference.

 

Section 2.                                           Amendments to Credit Agreement.  Subject to the occurrence of the Sixth Amendment Effective Date, the Credit Agreement is hereby amended as follows:

 

 

(a)                                 Section 1.01 of the Credit Agreement is hereby amended by adding the following definition in the appropriate alphabetical order:

 

“Required Collateral Percentage” means (a) prior to April 1, 2015, 80%, and (b) on and after April 1, 2015, 90%.

 

(b)                                 Clause (a) of the second sentence of Section 4.01 of the Credit Agreement is hereby amended and restated in its entirety as follows: “(a) (i) as of the Closing Date, Mortgages on at least 80% of the total proven Oil and Gas Properties set forth in the Reserve Report delivered pursuant to Section 5.01(i) and (ii) thereafter, such Mortgages as may be required from time to time in accordance with Section 4.02”.

 

(c)                                  Section 4.02 of the Credit Agreement is hereby amended and restated in its entirety as follows:

 

“4.02                  Agreement to Deliver Security Documents.  On the Closing Date, the Loan Parties shall execute such Mortgages, security agreements, financing statements and other Security Documents substantially similar to the mortgages, security agreements, financing statements and other security documents executed in connection with the Existing Credit Agreement, or otherwise in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Administrative Agent, for the purpose of granting and perfecting first and prior Liens in proven Oil and Gas Properties having at least eighty percent (80%) of the net present value reflected in the Reserve Report delivered under Section 5.01(i).  In connection with each Scheduled Borrowing Base Determination and Special Borrowing Base Determination, Borrower shall provide to Administrative Agent a report listing all current Mortgaged Properties covered in the Reserve Report to ascertain whether the Mortgaged Properties represent at least the Required Collateral Percentage of the total net present value of the proven Oil and Gas Properties in the Reserve Report delivered by Borrower to Administrative Agent in connection with such Scheduled Borrowing Base Determination.  In the event that the Mortgaged Properties do not represent at least the Required Collateral Percentage of such total value, then, within thirty (30) days of such Scheduled Borrowing Base Determination (which thirty-day period may, solely in the case of the Scheduled Borrowing Base Determination occurring April 1, 2015, be extended by up to sixty (60) days by Administrative Agent in its sole discretion), Parent and Borrower shall, and shall cause their respective Subsidiaries to, grant to Administrative Agent as security for the Obligations a first-priority Lien interest (subject to Permitted Liens) on additional proven Oil and Gas Properties not already subject to a Lien of the Security Documents such that after giving effect thereto, the Mortgaged Properties will represent at least the Required Collateral Percentage of such total value.  All such Liens will be created and perfected by and in accordance with the provisions of deeds of trust, security agreements and financing statements or other Security Documents, all in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Administrative Agent and in sufficient executed and acknowledged counterparts for recording purposes.  In order to comply with the

 

2

 

foregoing, if any Subsidiary places a Lien on its Oil and Gas Properties and such Subsidiary is not a Guarantor, then it shall become a Guarantor.”

 

(d)                                 Sections 7.16(b) and (c) of the Credit Agreement are hereby amended by replacing each reference therein to “80%” with a reference to “the Required Collateral Percentage”.

 

(e)                                  Section II.B of Appendix II to the Credit Agreement is hereby amended and restated in its entirety as follows:

 

“B.                              Leverage Ratio.  As of the last day of any fiscal quarter, Borrower’s ratio of Total Net Indebtedness to EBITDA for the trailing four fiscal quarter period ending on the last day of such fiscal quarter shall not exceed (i) 4.75:1.0, for the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2014, (ii) 4.50:1.0, for the fiscal quarters ending March 31, 2015, June 30, 2015, September 30, 2015 and December 31, 2015, and (iii) 4.00:1.0, for the fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2016 and each fiscal quarter thereafter.”

 

(f)                                   Section 4(c) of the Fifth Amendment is hereby amended by adding the words “(as amended on the Bridge Facility Effective Date if and to the extent that such date occurs)” after the reference therein to “Section 8.05(n) of the Credit Agreement”.

 

Section 3.                                           Scheduled Borrowing Base Redetermination.

 

(a)                                 Pursuant to Section 2.04(a) of the Credit Agreement, on and as of April 1, 2015, but subject to the occurrence of the Sixth Amendment Effective Date, the Conforming Borrowing Base shall automatically be maintained at $525,000,000 until adjusted in accordance with Section 2.04(f) of the Credit Agreement or otherwise redetermined.

 

(b)                                 Both Parent and Borrower, on the one hand, and Administrative Agent and the Required Lenders, on the other hand, agree that the redetermination of the Conforming Borrowing Base pursuant to clause (a) of this Section 3 shall constitute the regularly scheduled redetermination of the Conforming Borrowing Base for April 1, 2015 (and shall not constitute a discretionary redetermination of the Conforming Borrowing Base by either Borrower, on the one hand, or Administrative Agent or Lenders, on the other hand, pursuant to Section 2.04(e) of the Credit Agreement).

 

(c)                                  Both the Parent and the Borrower, on the one hand, and the Administrative Agent and the Required Lenders, on the other hand, further acknowledge and agree that (i) for purposes of the redetermination of the Conforming Borrowing Base pursuant to clause (a) of this Section 3, the DeQuincy Assets were not included in the most recently delivered Reserve Report, or, if included, were not given any value in the determination of the Conforming Borrowing Base for purposes of the Credit Agreement or other Loan Documents and (ii) so long as the DeQuincy Disposition is consummated prior to the Scheduled Borrowing Base Determination scheduled for October 1, 2015 and any discretionary redetermination of the Conforming Borrowing Base by either Borrower, on the one hand, or Administrative Agent (at the direction of the Required Lenders), on the other hand, pursuant to Section 2.04(e) of the Credit Agreement, as a result of

 

3

 

such consummation the Conforming Borrowing Base shall not be automatically reduced pursuant to Section 8.02 of the Credit Agreement.

 

Section 4.                                           Conditions of Sixth Amendment Effective Date.  This Amendment will become effective on the date on which each of the following conditions precedent are satisfied or are waived by Administrative Agent and the Required Lenders in their sole discretion (the “Sixth Amendment Effective Date”).

 

(a)                                 Borrower, Parent and Lenders comprising at least the Required Lenders shall have delivered to Administrative Agent duly executed counterparts of this Amendment;

 

(b)                                 Borrower shall have made payment of all fees and expenses then due and payable under the Credit Agreement, including any fees and expenses then due and payable in connection with this Amendment pursuant to Section 12.04(a) of the Credit Agreement, in the case of expenses to the extent invoiced at least three business days prior to the Sixth Amendment Effective Date (except as otherwise reasonably agreed by Borrower); and

 

(c)                                  Borrower and Parent shall have acknowledged and confirmed to Administrative Agent and the Lenders, and by its execution and delivery of this Amendment each of Borrower and Parent does hereby acknowledge and confirm to Administrative Agent and the Lenders, that, after giving effect to this Amendment (i) the representations and warranties in Article VI of the Credit Agreement shall be true and correct in all material respects (except for representations and warranties already qualified by materiality or Material Adverse Effect, which shall be true and correct in all respects), on and as of the Sixth Amendment Effective Date with the same effect as if made on and as of such date (except to the extent such representations and warranties expressly refer to an earlier date in which case they shall be true and correct as of such earlier date in all material respects, except for representations and warranties already qualified by materiality or Material Adverse Effect, which shall be true and correct in all respects as of such earlier date), and (ii) no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing.

 

Section 5.                                           Consent Fees.  Borrower agrees to pay to Administrative Agent on the Sixth Amendment Effective Date for the account of each Lender that has returned an executed counterpart signature page to this Amendment (whether by physical delivery or electronic transmission) to Administrative Agent by or before 5:00 pm Central Time on March 24, 2015, a one-time consent fee in an amount of ten (10) basis points times the amount of such Lender’s then-effective Commitment.

 

Section 6.                                           Authorization to Release Louisiana Mortgages and Related Personal Property.  Each of the Lenders party hereto hereby authorizes the Administrative Agent to execute and deliver to the Borrower (or its designee) concurrently with the consummation of the DeQuincy Disposition, instruments or other agreements terminating and releasing the Security Documents covering the portion of the Borrower’s, Parent’s or their respective Subsidiaries’ Oil and Gas Properties and any personal property directly related thereto disposed of thereby.

 

4

 

Section 7.                                           Representations and Warranties.  On the Sixth Amendment Effective Date, each of Parent and Borrower represents and warrants to Administrative Agent and each of the Lenders that:

 

(a)                                 Each Loan Party: (i) is validly existing and (ii) has the power and authority to execute, deliver, and perform its obligations under this Amendment and each other Loan Document to which it is a party except where such failure does not constitute a Default and could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(b)                                 The execution, delivery and performance by each of Parent and Borrower of this Amendment and each other Loan Document to which it is a party has been duly authorized by all necessary limited liability company or corporate action of Parent or Borrower, as applicable, and does not and will not contravene the terms of any of such Person’s Organization Documents.

 

(c)                                  This Amendment and each other Loan Document to which each Loan Party is a party constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligations of such Person to the extent it is a party thereto, enforceable against such Person in accordance with its terms, except as enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, or similar laws affecting the enforcement of creditors’ rights generally or by equitable principles relating to enforceability.

 

Section 8.                                           Reference to and Effect on the Credit Agreement.

 

(a)                                 Upon the Sixth Amendment Effective Date and thereafter, each reference in the Credit Agreement to “this Agreement,” “hereunder,” “hereof,” “herein,” or words of like import, shall mean and be a reference to the Credit Agreement as amended hereby.

 

(b)                                 Except as specifically amended by this Amendment, the Credit Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and is hereby ratified and confirmed.

 

Section 9.                                           Cost and Expenses.  Each of Parent and Borrower agrees to pay fees and expenses in connection with this Amendment pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 12.04(a) of the Credit Agreement.

 

Section 10.                                    Extent of Amendments.  Except as specifically set forth in this Amendment, the Credit Agreement and the other Loan Documents are not amended, waived, modified or affected hereby.  Each of Parent and Borrower hereby ratifies and confirms that (i) except as specifically set forth in this Amendment, all of the terms, conditions, covenants, representations, warranties and all other provisions of the Credit Agreement remain in full force and effect, (ii) each of the other Loan Documents are and remain in full force and effect in accordance with their respective terms, (iii) the Collateral is unimpaired by this Amendment, and (iv) except as specifically set forth in this Amendment, each of Administrative Agent, each Issuing Lender and each Lender shall have and retain unimpaired any and all rights that it may now or hereafter have under or in connection with the Credit Agreement (as modified hereby) or any other Loan Document (including its right to insist on strict compliance with the Credit Agreement (as modified hereby) or other Loan Document).

 

5

 

Section 11.                                    Release.    In consideration of the waivers and amendments set forth in this Amendment, each of Borrower and Parent, on behalf of themselves and their respective subsidiaries, as well as their respective heirs, predecessors in interest, successors and assigns (each individually, a “Releasing Party” and collectively, the “Releasing Parties”) hereby irrevocably releases, acquits, forever discharges, and covenants not to sue, Administrative Agent, each Issuing Lender, Swing Line Lender and each Lender, along with all of their Affiliates, officers, directors, agents, employees, and attorneys-in-fact, as well as their respective heirs, predecessors in interest, successors and assigns (each individually, a “Released Party” and collectively, the “Released Parties”) from any and all claims, demands, debts, liabilities, contracts, agreements, obligations, accounts, defenses, investigations, proceedings, suits, offsets against the indebtedness evidenced by the Loan Documents, actions, causes of action or claims for damages or relief of whatever kind or nature, whether equitable or monetary, whether known or unknown, suspected or unsuspected by Borrower or Parent, which Borrower, Parent, any Guarantor or any Subsidiary of any of them, ever had or now has, may have or that may hereafter accrue against any Released Party, in each case, for or by reason of any matter, cause or thing whatsoever arising or occurring on or prior to the date of this Amendment in any way relating to, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly (a) the Credit Agreement, any Note, any Security Document, any other Loan Document or the transactions evidenced thereby, including, without limitation, any disbursements under the Credit Agreement, any Notes, the negotiation of any of the Credit Agreement, the Notes, the Mortgages or the other Loan Documents, the terms thereof, or the approval, administration or servicing thereof, or (b) any notice of default, event of default in reference to any Loan Document or any other matter pertaining to the collection or enforcement by any Released Party of the indebtedness evidenced by any Loan Document or any right or remedy under any Loan Document, or (c) any purported oral agreements or understandings by and between any Released Party and Borrower or Parent in reference to any Loan Document (the “Released Claims”).  The Releasing Parties understand and acknowledge that they may hereafter discover facts in addition to or different from those which they know or believe to be true with respect to the Released Claims, but the Releasing Parties expressly acknowledge and agree that any such discovery shall not affect the validity or enforceability of their release herein, including their release of any unknown claims that constitute Released Claims.  The Releasing Parties acknowledge that the foregoing waiver was separately bargained for and is a key element of this Amendment.

 

Section 12.                                    Execution and Counterparts.  This Amendment may be executed in any number of counterparts and by different parties hereto in separate counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be deemed to be an original and all of which taken together shall constitute but one and the same instrument.  Delivery of an executed counterpart of this Amendment by facsimile or .pdf shall be equally as effective as delivery of a manually executed counterpart of this Amendment.

 

Section 13.                                    Governing Law.  This Amendment shall be governed by, construed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, except to the extent that federal laws of the United States of America apply.

 

Section 14.                                    Headings.  Section headings in this Amendment are included herein for convenience and reference only and shall not constitute a part of this Amendment for any other purpose.

 

6

 

Section 15.                                    No Waiver.  Borrower hereby agrees that except as expressly set forth in this Amendment, no Default or Event of Default has been waived or remedied by the execution of this Amendment by Administrative Agent, the Swing Line Lender, any Issuing Lender or any Lender, and any such Default or Event or Default heretofore arising and currently continuing shall continue after the execution and delivery hereof.  Nothing contained in this Amendment nor any past indulgence by Administrative Agent, the Swing Line Lender, any Issuing Lender or any Lender, nor any other action or inaction on behalf of Administrative Agent, the Swing Line Lender, any Issuing Lender or any Lender shall constitute or be deemed to constitute an election of remedies by Administrative Agent, the Swing Line Lender, any Issuing Lender or any Lender.

 

Section 16.                                    Loan Document.  This Amendment is a Loan Document.

 

Section 17.                                    Severability.  The illegality or unenforceability of any provision of this Amendment or any instrument or agreement required hereunder shall not in any way affect or impair the legality or enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Amendment or any instrument or agreement required hereunder.

 

Section 18.                                    NO ORAL AGREEMENTS.  THE RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF EACH OF THE PARTIES TO THE LOAN DOCUMENTS SHALL BE DETERMINED SOLELY FROM WRITTEN AGREEMENTS, DOCUMENTS, AND INSTRUMENTS, AND ANY PRIOR ORAL AGREEMENTS BETWEEN SUCH PARTIES ARE SUPERSEDED BY AND MERGED INTO SUCH WRITINGS.  THIS AMENDMENT, THE CREDIT AGREEMENT AND THE OTHER WRITTEN LOAN DOCUMENTS EXECUTED BY PARENT, BORROWER, ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT, THE SWING LINE LENDER, ANY ISSUING LENDER AND/OR LENDERS (TOGETHER WITH THE FEE LETTERS) REPRESENT THE FINAL AGREEMENT REGARDING THE MATTERS HEREIN BETWEEN SUCH PARTIES, AND MAY NOT BE CONTRADICTED BY EVIDENCE OF PRIOR, CONTEMPORANEOUS, OR SUBSEQUENT ORAL AGREEMENTS BY SUCH PARTIES.  THERE ARE NO UNWRITTEN ORAL AGREEMENTS BETWEEN SUCH PARTIES.

 

[Signature Pages Follow]

 

7

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment to be duly executed and delivered by their proper and duly authorized officer(s) as of the day and year first above written,

 

	
 
    	
MIDSTATES   PETROLEUM COMPANY LLC, a
    
	
 
    	
Delaware   limited liability company, as Borrower
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
/s/   Nelson M. Haight
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:  Nelson   M. Haight
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:    Senior   Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
MIDSTATES   PETROLEUM COMPANY, INC., a
    
	
 
    	
Delaware   corporation, as Parent
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
/s/   Nelson M. Haight
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:  Nelson   M. Haight
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:    Senior   Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
    

 

[Revolver Amendment Signature Page]

 

 

	
 
    	
SUNTRUST   BANK, as Administrative Agent,
    
	
 
    	
as   Swing Line Lender and as an Issuing Lender
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
/s/   Shannon Juhan
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:   Shannon Juhan
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:   Vice President
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
SUNTRUST   BANK, as a Lender
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
/s/   Shannon Juhan
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:   Shannon Juhan
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:   Vice President
    

 

[Revolver Amendment Signature Page]

 

 

	
 
    	
BANK   OF AMERICA, N.A., as a Lender
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
/s/   C. Mark Hedrick
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    	
C.   Mark Hedrick
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    	
Managing   Director
    

 

[Revolver Amendment Signature Page]

 

 

	
 
    	
CAPITAL   ONE, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as a Lender
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
/s/   Tony Alexander
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    	
Tony   Alexander
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    	
Vice   President
    

 

[Revolver Amendment Signature Page]

 

 

	
 
    	
GOLDMAN   SACHS BANK USA, as a Lender
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
/s/   Jamie Minieri
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    	
Jamie   Minieri
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    	
Authorized   Signatory
    

 

[Revolver Amendment Signature Page]

 

 

	
 
    	
KEYBANK   NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as a Lender
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
/s/   John Dravenstott
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    	
John   Dravenstott
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    	
Vice   President
    

 

[Revolver Amendment Signature Page]

 

 

	
 
    	
MORGAN   STANLEY BANK, N.A., as a Lender
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
/s/   Dmitriy Barskiy
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    	
Dmitriy   Barskiy
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    	
Authorized   Signatory
    

 

[Revolver Amendment Signature Page]

 

 

	
 
    	
MORGAN   STANLEY SENIOR FUNDING, INC.,
    
	
 
    	
as   a Lender
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
/s/   Dmitriy Barskiy
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:   Dmitriy Barskiy
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:   Vice President
    

 

[Revolver Amendment Signature Page]

 

 

	
 
    	
NATIXIS,   NEW YORK BRANCH, as a Lender
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
/s/   Stuart Murray
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    	
Stuart   Murray
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    	
Managing   Director
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
/s/   Andrew Keene
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    	
Andrew   Keene
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    	
Vice   President
    

 

[Revolver Amendment Signature Page]

 

 

	
 
    	
THE   ROYAL BANK OF SCOTLAND PLC, as a Lender
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
/s/   Steve Ray
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    	
Steve   Ray
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    	
Director
    

 

[Revolver Amendment Signature Page]

 

 

	
 
    	
THE   BANK OF NOVA SCOTIA, as a Lender
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
 
    
	
 
    	
By:
    	
/s/   Alan Dawson
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Name:
    	
Alan   Dawson
    
	
 
    	
 
    	
Title:
    	
Director
    

 

[Revolver Amendment Signature Page]

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