Melvin C. Payne is the CEO of Carriage Services, Inc., a company specializing in the funeral and cemetery industry. He has been leading the company since 2002. Melvin has a solid foundation in business management, holding a Bachelor’s degree in...

Melvin C. Payne is the CEO of Carriage Services, Inc., a company specializing in the funeral and cemetery industry. He has been leading the company since 2002. Melvin has a solid foundation in business management, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Under his leadership, Carriage Services has focused on driving long-term growth while optimizing performance metrics like cash flow and EBITDA margin. In recent years, he faced challenges but was still able to secure significant bonuses, earning $700,000 in salary and a $450,000 performance bonus in 2017. His compensation reflects a strong link between his pay and the company’s performance. Melvin also participates in executive programs that provide health benefits, life insurance reimbursement, and retirement plans, although he does not engage in the employee stock purchase program. This structure aims to motivate and retain top-tier talent in the company, aligning their interests with shareholders. Overall, Melvin’s approach showcases a balance of leadership, performance-based incentives, and strategic planning in the competitive landscape of the death care industry.

Quick Links

1. Rivals

2. Holdings

3. Insider Trading

4. Compensation History

5. Other Carriage Services CEOs

C

Melvin C. Payne

Ex-CEO of Carriage Services

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

Field of Expertise

Business & Management

Sector of Economy

Consumer Cyclical

Born

January 1, 1950 - 75 years ago

CEO of Carriage Services for

14 years 8 months (Jan 2002 - Sep 2016)

Previous Experience

Various management positions in the funeral services industry

Rivals

Competitors/colleagues of Melvin C. Payne

Holdings

See how much did Melvin C. Payne make over time.

As the CEO of Carriage Services, Melvin C. Payne had significant equity stakes in the company. His holdings peaked during a time when the company was restructuring and expanding its operations. At one point, he had 100,000 shares that were...

As the CEO of Carriage Services, Melvin C. Payne had significant equity stakes in the company. His holdings peaked during a time when the company was restructuring and expanding its operations. At one point, he had 100,000 shares that were crucial in his overall wealth, valued at a market rate, which fluctuated with the company’s performance. Despite not entering the Employee Stock Purchase Program, he had multiple stock options and awards that reflected a long-term commitment to the company's success. Over the years, his wealth was closely tied to the stock price, demonstrating the direct relationship between his holdings and the company's financial health. As of the latest reports, he continues to hold substantial unvested stock awards, indicating confidence in the company’s future growth.

Loading...

Insider Trading

See recent insider trades of Melvin C. Payne.

No insider trades found for this CEO.

Compensation History

See how much did Melvin C. Payne make over time.

Melvin C. Payne's compensation is structured to align his interests with those of shareholders at Carriage Services. In recent years, his total annual compensation has varied, reaching a high of around $2.7 million in 2017, driven by a mix of salary, bonuses, and stock awards. In 2016, he earned $1.24 million, which included a base salary of $670,000 and a total bonus of $700,000 tied to the company’s performance metrics. His compensation plan emphasizes performance, with a significant portion dependent on achieving specific financial targets. Even during challenging years for the company, his compensation remained competitive, reflecting the board's belief in his leadership capabilities. Additionally, post-employment agreements ensure he has financial security if he leaves the company, enhancing his position and stability as CEO.

Year

2016

Total Compensation

$1.42M

Salary

$670.00K

Board Justification

The compensation philosophy is designed to attract, motivate, and retain exceptional leadership talent aligned with the company's high performance culture, linking pay to performance and long-term shareholder value.

Bonus

$700.00K

Board Justification

The annual cash incentive bonus for performance during fiscal year 2016 for Mr. Payne was based on previously established metrics, with a target bonus equal to 100% of his base salary.

Other

$45.36K

Board Justification

This includes reimbursement of life insurance premiums, club dues, fringe benefits, and 401(k) matching contributions.

Restricted Stock

$0.00(0 RSU)

Board Justification

No stock awards vested in 2016.

Performance Metrics

The performance metrics for the annual cash incentive bonus included financial performance targets related to the company's operational and financial goals.

Other Carriage Services CEOs

Here are other CEOs of Carriage Services

David J. DeCarlo

Ex-CEO of Carriage Services

September 2016 - May 2022