Michael Cherkasky’s stock holdings reflect a pivotal moment in leadership and performance. When he left MMC in early 2008, he held a substantial amount of equity in restricted stock units, totaling 293,409 shares that vested due to his termination. This...

Michael Cherkasky’s stock holdings reflect a pivotal moment in leadership and performance. When he left MMC in early 2008, he held a substantial amount of equity in restricted stock units, totaling 293,409 shares that vested due to his termination. This position significantly rose from previous years, particularly in 2005, when he received a substantial retention award of three-year restricted stock, valued then at $3.75 million. Originally, his stock options included a staggering 820,967 shares; this bulk amount was created to enhance his alignment with shareholders’ interests. However, by the end of his tenure, as his employment ended amid performance struggles, the vesting of his stock became a focal point, showcasing how leadership outcomes directly influence compensation structures and personal wealth. It's a clear demonstration that in corporate settings, timing and performance are everything.