proxy.htm
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
 
 
SCHEDULE 14A
 
Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934
 
 
Filed by the Registrant
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Preliminary Proxy Statement
 
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Definitive Proxy Statement
 
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Definitive Additional Materials
 
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Soliciting Material Pursuant to §240.14a-12
  
Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc.
 (Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
 
 
 (Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if Other Than the Registrant)
 
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CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC.
 
200 East Basse Road
San Antonio, Texas 78209
 
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
To Be Held May 18, 2012
 
As a stockholder of Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. (“Clear Channel Outdoor” or the “Company”), you are hereby given notice of and invited to attend, in person or by proxy, the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Clear Channel Outdoor to be held in the Lone Star Ballroom-East at the Hilton San Antonio Airport, located at 611 NW Loop 410, San Antonio, Texas 78216, on May 18, 2012, at 8:00 a.m. local time, for the following purposes:
 
 
 
1.
to elect James C. Carlisle, Robert W. Pittman and Dale W. Tremblay to serve as directors for a three year term;
 
 
 
2.
to approve the adoption of the 2012 Stock Incentive Plan;
 
 
 
3.
to approve the adoption of the Amended and Restated 2006 Annual Incentive Plan;
 
 
 
4.
to ratify the selection of Ernst & Young LLP as the independent registered public accounting firm of Clear Channel Outdoor for the year ending December 31, 2012; and
 
 
 
5.
to transact any other business which may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof.
 

Only stockholders of record at the close of business on April 2, 2012 are entitled to notice of and to vote at the annual meeting.

Two cut-out admission tickets are included on the back cover of this document and are required for admission to the annual meeting.  Please contact Clear Channel Outdoor’s Secretary at Clear Channel Outdoor’s corporate headquarters if you need additional tickets.  If you plan to attend the annual meeting, please note that space limitations make it necessary to limit attendance to stockholders and one guest per each stockholder.  Admission to the annual meeting will be on a first-come, first-served basis.  Registration and seating will begin at 7:45 a.m. local time.  Each stockholder may be asked to present valid picture identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.  Stockholders holding stock in brokerage accounts (“street name” holders) will need to bring a copy of a brokerage statement reflecting stock ownership as of the record date.  Cameras (including cellular telephones with photographic capabilities), recording devices and other electronic devices will not be permitted at the annual meeting.  The annual meeting will begin promptly at 8:00 a.m. local time.

Your attention is directed to the accompanying proxy statement.  In addition, although mere attendance at the annual meeting will not revoke your proxy, if you attend the annual meeting you may revoke your proxy and vote in person.  To ensure that your shares are represented at the annual meeting, please complete, date, sign and mail the enclosed proxy card in the return envelope provided for that purpose.
 
By Order of the Board of Directors
 
/s/ Robert H. Walls, Jr.
 
Robert H. Walls, Jr.
Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary
San Antonio, Texas
April 9, 2012

IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING THE AVAILABILITY OF PROXY MATERIALS FOR THE
ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS TO BE HELD ON MAY 18, 2012
 
The Proxy and Annual Report Materials are available at:
 http://bnymellon.mobular.net/bnymellon/cco


2012 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING AND PROXY STATEMENT
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PROXY STATEMENT
 
This proxy statement contains information related to the annual meeting of stockholders of Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. (referred to herein as “Clear Channel Outdoor,” “Company,” “we,” “our” or “us”) to be held on Friday, May 18, 2012, beginning at 8:00 a.m. local time, in the Lone Star Ballroom-East at the Hilton San Antonio Airport, located at 611 NW Loop 410, San Antonio, Texas 78216, and at any postponements or adjournments thereof.  This proxy statement is first being mailed to stockholders on or about April 18, 2012.
 
 
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE PROXY MATERIALS AND THE ANNUAL MEETING
 
Q:           Why am I receiving these materials?
 
A:
Clear Channel Outdoor’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) is providing these proxy materials to you in connection with Clear Channel Outdoor’s annual meeting of stockholders (the “annual meeting”), which will take place on May 18, 2012.  The Board is soliciting proxies to be used at the annual meeting.  You also are invited to attend the annual meeting and are requested to vote on the proposals described in this proxy statement.

Q:
What information is contained in these materials?
 
A:
The information included in this proxy statement relates to the proposals to be voted on at the annual meeting, the voting process, the compensation of our directors and our most highly paid executive officers, and certain other required information.  Following this proxy statement are Clear Channel Outdoor’s 2012 Stock Incentive Plan (Appendix A), Clear Channel Outdoor’s Amended and Restated 2006 Annual Incentive Plan (Appendix B) and excerpts from Clear Channel Outdoor’s 2011 Annual Report on Form 10-K, including the Consolidated Financial Statements, Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, as well as certain other data (Appendix C).  A proxy card and a return envelope also are enclosed.

Q:
What proposals will be voted on at the annual meeting?
 
A:
There are four proposals scheduled to be voted on at the annual meeting:
 
·  
the election of the three nominees for directors named in this proxy statement;
·  
the approval of the adoption of the 2012 Stock Incentive Plan;
·  
the approval of the adoption of the Amended and Restated 2006 Annual Incentive Plan; and
·  
the ratification of the selection of Ernst & Young LLP as Clear Channel Outdoor’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2012.
 
Q:
Which of my shares may I vote?
 
A:
All shares of Class A and Class B common stock owned by you as of the close of business on April 2, 2012 (the “Record Date”) may be voted by you.  These shares include shares that are: (1) held directly in your name as the stockholder of record and (2) held for you as the beneficial owner through a stockbroker, bank or other nominee.  Each share of Class A common stock is entitled to one vote at the annual meeting and each share of Class B common stock is entitled to twenty votes at the annual meeting.  As of the Record Date, there were 41,802,578 shares of Class A common stock outstanding and 315,000,000 shares of Class B common stock outstanding.  All shares of our Class B common stock are held by Clear Channel Holdings, Inc., a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of CC Media Holdings, Inc. (“CC Media” or “CCMH”).

Q:
What is the difference between holding shares as a stockholder of record and as a beneficial owner?
 
A:
Most stockholders of Clear Channel Outdoor hold their shares through a stockbroker, bank or other nominee rather than directly in their own name.  As summarized below, there are some distinctions between shares held of record and those owned beneficially.

Stockholder of Record: If your shares are registered directly in your name with Clear Channel Outdoor’s transfer agent, Computershare Shareowner Services LLC (“Computershare”), you are considered, with respect to those shares, the stockholder of record, and these proxy materials are being sent directly to you by Computershare on behalf of Clear Channel Outdoor.  As the stockholder of record, you have the right to grant your voting proxy directly to Clear Channel Outdoor or to vote in person at the annual meeting.  Clear Channel Outdoor has enclosed a proxy card for you to use.  Please sign and return your proxy card.
 
 
 
1


Beneficial Owner: If your shares are held in a stock brokerage account or by a bank or other nominee, you are considered the beneficial owner of shares held in “street name,” and these proxy materials are being forwarded to you by your broker or nominee who is considered, with respect to those shares, the stockholder of record.  As the beneficial owner, you have the right to direct your broker on how to vote and also are invited to attend the annual meeting.  However, since you are not the stockholder of record, you may not vote these shares in person at the annual meeting, unless you obtain and present at the meeting a signed proxy from the record holder giving you the right to vote the shares.  Your broker or nominee has enclosed a voting instruction card for you to use in directing the broker or nominee regarding how to vote your shares.  Please sign and return your voting instruction card.
 
Q:
What constitutes a quorum?
 
A:
The holders of a majority of the total voting power of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A and Class B common stock entitled to vote and represented in person or by proxy will constitute a quorum at the annual meeting.  Votes “withheld,” abstentions and “broker non-votes” (described below) are counted as present for purposes of establishing a quorum.

Q:
If my shares are held in “street name” by my broker, will my broker vote my shares for me?
 
A:
Under New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) rules, brokers will have discretion to vote the shares of customers who fail to provide voting instructions on “routine matters,” but brokers may not vote such shares on “non-routine matters” without voting instructions.  When a broker is not permitted to vote the shares of a customer who does not provide voting instructions, it is called a “broker non-vote.”  If you do not provide your broker with voting instructions, your broker will not be able to vote your shares with respect to (1) the election of directors, (2) the approval of the adoption of the 2012 Stock Incentive Plan and (3) the approval of the adoption of the Amended and Restated 2006 Annual Incentive Plan.  Your broker will send you directions on how you can instruct your broker to vote.

 
As described above, if you do not provide your broker with voting instructions and the broker is not permitted to vote your shares on a proposal, a “broker non-vote” occurs.  Broker non-votes will be counted for purposes of establishing a quorum at the annual meeting and will have no effect on the vote on the election of directors or the approval of the adoption of the Amended and Restated 2006 Annual Incentive Plan at the annual meeting. With respect to the proposal to approve the adoption of the 2012 Stock Incentive Plan, a broker non-vote is not counted as a vote cast and, therefore, could prevent the total votes cast on that proposal from representing more than 50% of the outstanding shares of our Class A and Class B common stock as required, but will not otherwise have an effect on the vote.

Q:
How can I vote my shares in person at the annual meeting?
 
A:
Shares held directly in your name as the stockholder of record may be voted by you in person at the annual meeting.  If you choose to vote your shares held of record in person at the annual meeting, please bring the enclosed proxy card and proof of identification.  Even if you plan to attend the annual meeting, Clear Channel Outdoor recommends that you also submit your proxy as described below so that your vote will be counted if you later decide not to attend the annual meeting.  You may request that your previously submitted proxy card not be used if you desire to vote in person when you attend the annual meeting.  Shares held in “street name” may be voted in person by you at the annual meeting only if you obtain and present at the meeting a signed proxy from the record holder giving you the right to vote the shares.  Your vote is important.  Accordingly, you are urged to sign and return the accompanying proxy card whether or not you plan to attend the annual meeting.

If you plan to attend the annual meeting, please note that space limitations make it necessary to limit attendance to stockholders and one guest per each stockholder.  Admission to the annual meeting will be on a first-come, first-served basis.  Registration and seating will begin at 7:45 a.m. local time.  Each stockholder may be asked to present valid picture identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.  Stockholders holding stock in brokerage accounts (“street name” holders) will need to bring a copy of a brokerage statement reflecting stock ownership as of the Record Date.  Cameras (including cellular telephones with photographic capabilities), recording devices and other electronic devices will not be permitted at the annual meeting.
 
 
 
2


Q:
How can I vote my shares without attending the annual meeting?
 
A:
Whether you hold shares directly as the stockholder of record or beneficially in “street name,” when you return your proxy card or voting instructions accompanying this proxy statement, properly signed, the shares represented will be voted in accordance with your directions.  You can specify your choices by marking the appropriate boxes on the enclosed proxy card or voting instruction card.

 
For participants in the 401(k) plan who own shares of Clear Channel Outdoor through the plan, the plan permits you to direct the plan trustee on how to vote the Clear Channel Outdoor shares allocated to your account.  Your instructions to the plan trustee regarding how to vote your shares will be delivered via the enclosed proxy card.  Your proxy card for shares held in the 401(k) must be received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on May 15, 2012.  The plan administrator will instruct the trustee to vote shares as to which no instructions are received in proportion to voting directions received by the trustee from all plan participants who vote.

Q:
What if I return my proxy card without specifying my voting choices?
 
A:
If your proxy card is signed and returned without specifying choices, the shares will be voted as recommended by the Board.

Q:
What if I abstain from voting or withhold my vote on a specific proposal?
 
A:
If you withhold your vote on the election of directors, it will have no effect on the outcome of the vote on the election of directors.

If you abstain from voting on (1) the approval of the adoption of the 2012 Stock Incentive Plan, (2) the approval of the adoption of the Amended and Restated 2006 Annual Incentive Plan and (3) the ratification of the selection of Ernst & Young LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2012, it will have the same effect as a vote “against” these proposals.
 
 
Abstentions are counted as present for purposes of determining a quorum.
 
Q:
What does it mean if I receive more than one proxy or voting instruction card?
 
A:
It means your shares are registered differently or are in more than one account.  Please provide voting instructions for all proxy and voting instruction cards you receive.

Q:
What are Clear Channel Outdoor’s voting recommendations?
 
A:
The Board recommends that you vote your shares “FOR”:

·  
each of the three nominees for directors named in this proxy statement;
·  
the approval of the adoption of the 2012 Stock Incentive Plan;
·  
the approval of the adoption of the Amended and Restated 2006 Annual Incentive Plan; and
·  
the ratification of the selection of Ernst & Young LLP as Clear Channel Outdoor’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2012.

Q:
What vote is required to elect the directors and approve each proposal?
 
A:
The directors will be elected by a plurality of the votes properly cast.  The approval of the adoption of the 2012 Stock Incentive Plan, the approval of the adoption of the Amended and Restated 2006 Annual Incentive Plan and the ratification of the selection of Ernst & Young LLP as Clear Channel Outdoor’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2012 will be approved by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the total voting power of the voting stock present in person or by proxy at the annual meeting and entitled to vote on the matter.  However, under NYSE rules, the total votes cast in favor of the adoption of the 2012 Stock Incentive Plan must represent a majority of all issued and outstanding shares of our common stock entitled to vote on the proposal.
 
 
 
Q:
May I change my vote?
 
A:
If you are a stockholder of record, you may change your vote or revoke your proxy at any time before your shares are voted at the annual meeting by sending the Secretary of Clear Channel Outdoor a proxy card dated later than your last submitted proxy card, notifying the Secretary of Clear Channel Outdoor in writing, or voting in person at the annual meeting.  If your shares are held beneficially in “street name,” you should follow the instructions provided by your broker or other nominee to change your vote.

Q:
Where can I find the voting results of the annual meeting?
 
A:
Clear Channel Outdoor will announce preliminary voting results at the annual meeting and publish final results in a Current Report on Form 8-K, which we anticipate filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) by May 24, 2012.

Q:
May I access Clear Channel Outdoor’s proxy materials from the Internet?
 
A:
Yes.  These materials are available at http://bnymellon.mobular.net/bnymellon/cco.
 
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
 
Our Board, which currently consists of ten members, is responsible for overseeing the direction of Clear Channel Outdoor and for establishing broad corporate policies.  However, in accordance with corporate legal principles, it is not involved in day-to-day operating details.  Members of the Board are kept informed of Clear Channel Outdoor’s business through discussions with the Executive Chairman, the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial Officer and other executive officers, by reviewing analyses and reports sent to them, by receiving updates from Board committees and by otherwise participating in Board and committee meetings.

COMPOSITION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
 
Our Board is divided into three classes serving staggered three-year terms.  At each annual meeting of our stockholders, directors will be elected to succeed the class of directors whose terms have expired.  As long as CC Media continues to indirectly own shares of our common stock representing more than 50% of the total voting power of our common stock, it will have the ability to direct the election of all the members of our Board, the composition of our Board committees and the size of the Board.

Because CC Media controls more than 50% of the voting power of Clear Channel Outdoor, we have elected to be treated as a “controlled company” under the NYSE’s Corporate Governance Standards.  Accordingly, we are exempt from the provisions of the Corporate Governance Standards requiring that: (1) a majority of our Board consists of independent directors; (2) we have a nominating and governance committee composed entirely of independent directors and governed by a written charter addressing the nominating and governance committee’s purpose and responsibilities; and (3) we have a compensation committee composed entirely of independent directors with a written charter addressing the compensation committee’s purpose and responsibilities.  However, notwithstanding this exemption, as described more fully below, we have a Compensation Committee composed entirely of independent directors with a written charter addressing the Compensation Committee’s purpose and responsibilities.
 


BOARD MEETINGS
 
During 2011, the Board held ten meetings.  All of Clear Channel Outdoor’s directors attended at least 75% of the aggregate of all meetings of the Board and committees on which they served during the periods in which they served during 2011, with the exception of Margaret W. Covell, who resigned as a director on January 4, 2012.
 
STOCKHOLDER MEETING ATTENDANCE
 
Clear Channel Outdoor encourages, but does not require, directors to attend the annual meetings of stockholders.  Mark P. Mays, who served as our Chairman of the Board at the time, attended the annual meeting of stockholders in 2011.

INDEPENDENCE OF DIRECTORS
 
The Board has adopted a set of Governance Guidelines, addressing, among other things, standards for evaluating the independence of Clear Channel Outdoor’s directors.  The full text of the Governance Guidelines can be found on the investor relations section of Clear Channel Outdoor’s website at www.clearchanneloutdoor.com.
 
The Board has adopted the following standards for determining the independence of its members:
 
 
1.
A director must not be, or have been within the last three years, an employee of Clear Channel Outdoor.  In addition, a director’s immediate family member (“immediate family member” is defined to include a person’s spouse, parents, children, siblings, mother and father-in-law, sons and daughters-in-law and anyone (other than domestic employees) who shares such person’s home) must not be, or have been within the last three years, an executive officer of Clear Channel Outdoor.

 
2.
A director or immediate family member must not have received, during any twelve month period within the last three years, more than $120,000 in direct compensation from Clear Channel Outdoor, other than director or committee fees and pension or other forms of deferred compensation for prior service (and no such compensation may be contingent in any way on continued service).

 
3.
A director must not be a current partner or employee of a firm that is Clear Channel Outdoor’s internal or external auditor.  In addition, a director must not have an immediate family member who is (a) a current partner of such firm, or (b) a current employee of such a firm and personally works on Clear Channel Outdoor’s audit. Finally, neither the director nor an immediate family member of the director may have been, within the last three years, a partner or employee of such a firm and personally worked on Clear Channel Outdoor’s audit within that time.

 
4.
A director or an immediate family member must not be, or have been within the last three years, employed as an executive officer of another company where any of Clear Channel Outdoor’s present executive officers at the same time serve or served on that company’s compensation committee.

 
5.
A director must not be a current employee, and no director’s immediate family member may be a current executive officer, of a material relationship party (“material relationship party” is defined as any company that has made payments to, or received payments from, Clear Channel Outdoor for property or services in an amount which, in any of the last three fiscal years, exceeds the greater of $1 million, or 2% of such other company’s consolidated gross revenues).

 
6.
A director must not own, together with ownership interests of his or her family, ten percent (10%) or more of a material relationship party.

 
7.
A director or immediate family member must not be or have been during the last three years, a director, trustee or officer of a charitable organization (or hold a similar position), to which Clear Channel Outdoor makes contributions in an amount which, in any of the last three fiscal years, exceeds the greater of $50,000, or 5% of such organization’s consolidated gross revenues.



 
8.
A director must be “independent” as that term is defined from time to time by the rules and regulations promulgated by the SEC, by the listing standards of the NYSE and, with respect to at least two members of the compensation committee, by the applicable provisions of, and rules promulgated under, the Internal Revenue Code (collectively, the “Applicable Rules”).  For purposes of determining independence, the Board will consider relationships with Clear Channel Outdoor and any parent or subsidiary in a consolidated group with Clear Channel Outdoor or any other company relevant to an independence determination under the Applicable Rules.

The above independence standards conform to, or are more exacting than, the director independence requirements of the NYSE.  The above independence standards are set forth on Appendix A of the Governance Guidelines.

    Our Board currently consists of ten directors, one of whom served as our Chief Executive Officer until March 31, 2011 and one of whom currently serves as our Executive Chairman.  For a director to be independent, the Board must determine that such director does not have any direct or indirect material relationship with Clear Channel Outdoor.  Pursuant to the Governance Guidelines, the Board has undertaken its annual review of director independence.

    Our Board has affirmatively determined that Douglas L. Jacobs, Thomas R. Shepherd, Christopher M. Temple and Dale W. Tremblay are independent (and previously determined that Marsha M. Shields, who served as a director until May 16, 2011, was independent) under the listing standards of the NYSE, as well as Clear Channel Outdoor’s independence standards set forth above.  In addition, the Board has determined that each member of the Compensation Committee is independent and that each member of the Audit Committee is independent under the heightened independence standards required for audit committee members by the rules and regulations of the SEC.  In making these determinations, our Board reviewed and discussed information provided by the directors and by Clear Channel Outdoor with regard to the directors’ business and personal activities as they relate to Clear Channel Outdoor and its affiliates.  In the ordinary course of business during 2011, we entered into purchase and sale transactions for products and services with certain entities affiliated with members of our Board, as described below, and the following transactions were considered by our Board in making their independence determinations with respect to Messrs. Jacobs, Shepherd, Temple and Tremblay:
 
·  
During 2011, we and our affiliates conducted a small amount of business (less than $10,000) with an entity of which Mr. Shepherd and his partners are the largest shareholder.
·  
During 2011, we and our affiliates conducted a small amount of business (less than $50,000 in the aggregate) with an entity for which Mr. Jacobs serves as a director and a charity for which Mr. Jacobs serves as a director.
·  
During 2011, we and our affiliates conducted a small amount of business (less than $5,000) with the entity for which Mr. Tremblay serves as President and Chief Executive Officer.
 
All of the payments described above are for arms-length, ordinary course of business transactions and we generally expect transactions of a similar nature to occur during 2012.  In each case, the Board concluded that the transaction or relationship did not impair the independence of the director.
 
The rules of the NYSE require that non-management or independent directors of a listed company meet periodically in executive sessions.  In addition, the rules of the NYSE require listed companies to schedule an executive session including only independent directors at least once a year.  Clear Channel Outdoor’s independent directors met separately in executive sessions following two regular meetings of the Board in 2011.
 
The Board has created the office of Presiding Director to serve as the lead non-management director of the Board.  The office of the Presiding Director at all times will be held by an “independent” director, as that term is defined from time to time by the listing standards of the NYSE and as determined by the Board in accordance with the Board’s Governance Guidelines.  The Presiding Director has the power and authority to do the following:
 
·  
preside at all meetings of non-management directors when they meet in executive session without management participation;


·  
set agendas, priorities and procedures for meetings of non-management directors meeting in executive session without management participation;
·  
generally assist the Chairman of the Board;
·  
add agenda items to the established agenda for meetings of the Board;
·  
request access to Clear Channel Outdoor’s management, employees and its independent advisers for purposes of discharging his or her duties and responsibilities as a director; and
·  
retain independent outside financial, legal or other advisors at any time, at the expense of Clear Channel Outdoor, on behalf of the Board or any committee or subcommittee of the Board.

The Presiding Director position is rotated among the independent directors, in alphabetical order of last name, effective the first day of each calendar quarter.  As of the date of this proxy statement, Douglas L. Jacobs is serving as the Presiding Director.

COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD
 
The Board has two standing committees: the Audit Committee and the Compensation Committee.  Each committee has a written charter, which guides its operations.  The written charters are available on Clear Channel Outdoor’s website at www.clearchanneloutdoor.com.  The table below sets forth the members of each of these committees.
 
Board Committee Membership
 
Name
 
Audit Committee
 
Compensation Committee
Douglas L. Jacobs
 
*X
 
X
Christopher M. Temple
 
X
   
Dale W. Tremblay
 
X
 
*X
           
* = Chairman
X = Committee member

In addition, in December 2011, Clear Channel Outdoor formed a Special Committee composed of independent directors Messrs. Jacobs, Temple and Tremblay to review certain transactions between Clear Channel Outdoor and Clear Channel Communications, Inc., our indirect parent entity (“Clear Channel”).  Mr. Jacobs serves as Chairman of the Special Committee.  The Special Committee met two times during 2011.

The Audit Committee
 
The Audit Committee assists the Board in its oversight of the quality and integrity of the accounting, auditing and financial reporting practices of Clear Channel Outdoor.  Douglas L. Jacobs has been designated by our Board as an “Audit Committee Financial Expert,” as defined by the SEC.  The Audit Committee met eight times during 2011.  All members of the Audit Committee are independent as defined by the listing standards of the NYSE and Clear Channel Outdoor’s independence standards and satisfy the other requirements for audit committee membership, including the heightened independence standards, of the NYSE and the SEC.
 
The Audit Committee’s primary responsibilities, which are discussed in detail within its charter, include the following, subject to the consent of our corporate parent:
 
·  
be responsible for the appointment, compensation, retention and oversight of the work of the independent registered public accounting firm and any other registered public accounting firm engaged for the purpose of preparing an audit report or to perform other audit, review or attest services, and all fees and other terms of their engagement;
·  
review and discuss reports regarding the independent registered public accounting firm’s independence;
·  
review with the independent registered public accounting firm the annual audit scope and plan;
·  
review with management, the director of internal audit and the independent registered public accounting firm the budget and staffing of the internal audit department;


·  
review and discuss with management and the independent registered public accounting firm the annual and quarterly financial statements and the specific disclosures under “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” prior to the filing of the Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q;
·  
review with the independent registered public accounting firm the critical accounting policies and practices used;
·  
review with management, the independent registered public accounting firm and the director of internal audit Clear Channel Outdoor’s internal accounting controls and any significant findings and recommendations;
·  
discuss guidelines and policies with respect to risk assessment and risk management;
·  
oversee Clear Channel Outdoor’s policies with respect to related party transactions; and
·  
review with management and the General Counsel the status of legal and regulatory matters that may have a material impact on Clear Channel Outdoor’s financial statements and compliance policies.
 
The full text of the Audit Committee’s charter can be found on our website at www.clearchanneloutdoor.com.

The Compensation Committee

The Compensation Committee administers Clear Channel Outdoor’s incentive-compensation plans and equity-based plans, determines compensation arrangements for all executive officers, other than our Executive Chairman, Chief Financial Officer, General Counsel and Chief Accounting Officer, and makes recommendations to the Board concerning compensation for directors of Clear Channel Outdoor and its subsidiaries.  The Compensation Discussion and Analysis section of this proxy statement provides additional details regarding the basis on which the Compensation Committee determines executive compensation.  The Compensation Committee met seven times during 2011.  All members of the Compensation Committee are independent as defined by the listing standards of the NYSE and Clear Channel Outdoor’s independence standards.
 
The Compensation Committee has the ability, under its charter, to select and retain, at the expense of Clear Channel Outdoor, independent legal and financial counsel and other consultants necessary to assist the Compensation Committee as the Compensation Committee may deem appropriate, in its sole discretion.  The Compensation Committee also has the authority to select and retain any compensation consultant to be used to survey the compensation practices in Clear Channel Outdoor’s industry and to provide advice so that Clear Channel Outdoor can maintain its competitive ability to recruit and retain highly qualified personnel.  The Compensation Committee has the sole authority to approve related fees and retention terms for any of its counsel and consultants.
 
The Compensation Committee’s primary purposes, which are discussed in detail within its charter, are to:

·  
assist the Board in ensuring that a proper system of long-term and short-term compensation is in place to provide performance-oriented incentives to management, and that compensation plans are appropriate and competitive and properly reflect the objectives and performance of management and Clear Channel Outdoor;
·  
review and approve corporate goals and objectives relevant to the compensation of Clear Channel Outdoor’s executive officers, evaluate the performance of the executive officers in light of those goals and objectives and, either as a committee or together with the other independent directors (as directed by the Board), determine and approve the compensation level of the executive officers based on this evaluation;
·  
review and adopt, and/or make recommendations to the Board with respect to, incentive-compensation plans and equity-based plans;
·  
review and discuss with management the Compensation Discussion and Analysis to be included in Clear Channel Outdoor’s proxy statement and determine whether to recommend to the Board the inclusion of the Compensation Discussion and Analysis in the proxy statement;
·  
prepare the Compensation Committee report for inclusion in Clear Channel Outdoor’s proxy statement; and
·  
recommend to the Board the appropriate compensation for the non-employee members of the Board.
 


Our Chief Financial Officer, General Counsel and Chief Accounting Officer simultaneously hold the same positions at Clear Channel and CC Media, our indirect parent entities, and our Executive Chairman serves as Chief Executive Officer of Clear Channel and CC Media.  The compensation of those officers is set by the Compensation Committee of the board of directors of CC Media, and we are allocated a portion of the cost of the services of certain of those officers pursuant to the Corporate Services Agreement, dated November 16, 2005, by and between Clear Channel Management Services, L.P. and us.  Accordingly, our Compensation Committee charter does not govern the compensation arrangements, policies and practices of our Executive Chairman, Chief Financial Officer, General Counsel and Chief Accounting Officer.  The term “executive officer” used above in the description of the Compensation Committee’s purposes refers to our employees (other than the Executive Chairman, Chief Financial Officer, General Counsel and Chief Accounting Officer) who are (1) subject to the requirements of Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, governing insider trading reporting or (2) covered by the regulations under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), governing qualified performance-based compensation. See the Compensation Discussion and Analysis section of this proxy statement.  The Compensation Committee has the authority to delegate its responsibilities to subcommittees if the Compensation Committee determines such delegation would be in the best interest of Clear Channel Outdoor.
 
The full text of the Compensation Committee’s charter can be found on our website at www.clearchanneloutdoor.com.

DIRECTOR NOMINATING PROCEDURES
 
The Board oversees the identification and consideration of candidates for membership on the Board, and each member of the Board participates in this process.  It is the view of the Board that this function has been performed effectively by the Board, and that it is appropriate for Clear Channel Outdoor not to have a separate nominating committee or charter for this purpose.
 
The Board is responsible for developing and reviewing background information for candidates for the Board, including those recommended by stockholders.  Our directors play a critical role in guiding Clear Channel Outdoor’s strategic direction and overseeing the management of Clear Channel Outdoor.  Clear Channel Outdoor does not have a formal policy with regard to the consideration of diversity in identifying director nominees, but the Board strives to nominate directors with a variety of complementary skills so that, as a group, the Board will possess the appropriate mix of experience, skills, and expertise to oversee Clear Channel Outdoor’s businesses.  Director candidates should have experience in positions with a high degree of responsibility, be leaders in the organizations with which they are affiliated and have the time, energy, interest and willingness to serve as a member of the Board.  The Board evaluates each individual in the context of the Board as a whole, with the objective of recommending a group that can best perpetuate the success of our business and represent stockholder interests through the exercise of sound judgment using its diversity of experience.  The Board evaluates each incumbent director to determine whether he or she should be nominated to stand for re-election, based on the types of criteria outlined above as well as the director’s contributions to the Board during their current term.
 
Director Margaret W. Covell resigned as a member of our Board on January 4, 2012.  Pursuant to our bylaws, on January 9, 2012, our Board appointed James C. Carlisle as a member of our Board to fill the vacancy created by Ms. Covell’s resignation.  Mr. Carlisle was recommended for election as a director by our Board members affiliated with Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P.  Director Mark P. Mays’ term will end at the annual meeting and he is not standing for re-election.  Our Board has decided not to replace Mr. Mays as a director at this time and, accordingly, the size of our Board will be reduced from ten to nine immediately prior to the annual meeting.
 
The Board will consider as potential nominees individuals properly recommended by stockholders.  Recommendations concerning individuals proposed for consideration should be addressed to the Board, c/o Secretary, Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc., 200 East Basse Road, San Antonio, Texas 78209.  Each recommendation should include a personal biography of the suggested nominee, an indication of the background or experience that qualifies the person for consideration and a statement that the person has agreed to serve if nominated and elected.  The Board evaluates candidates recommended by stockholders in the same manner in which it evaluates other nominees.  Stockholders who themselves wish to effectively nominate a person for election to the Board, as contrasted with recommending a potential nominee to the Board for its consideration, are required to comply with the advance notice and other requirements set forth in our bylaws, as described below under “Stockholder Proposals for 2013 Annual Meeting and Advance Notice Procedures.”


BOARD LEADERSHIP STRUCTURE
 
Mark P. Mays served as our Chairman from 2009 until November 2, 2011 and as our Chief Executive Officer from August 2005 until March 31, 2011.  On March 31, 2011, our Board (1) established a new “Office of the Chief Executive Officer” to serve the functions of the Chief Executive Officer and President until a permanent replacement for Mr. Mays was hired and (2) appointed Thomas W. Casey (our Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer) and Robert H. Walls, Jr. (our Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary) to serve in the newly-created office in addition to their existing offices, which they retained.  Messrs. Casey and Walls are not members of our Board.  On October 2, 2011, Robert W. Pittman was appointed as our Executive Chairman and a member of our Board and, on January 24, 2012, C. William Eccleshare was appointed as our Chief Executive Officer, at which time our Office of the Chief Executive Officer ceased to exist.  Mr. Mays will continue to serve as a member of our Board until the annual meeting.  Mr. Mays’ term as a director will end at the annual meeting and he is not standing for re-election.
 
The Board does not have a policy regarding the separation of the roles of Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board as the Board believes it is in the best interests of Clear Channel Outdoor to make that determination based on the position and direction of Clear Channel Outdoor, the membership of the Board and the individuals who occupy those roles.  As our previous Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and as a member of our Board, Mr. Mays worked collaboratively with Messrs. Casey and Walls in our Office of the Chief Executive Officer during 2011 and has continued to work collaboratively with Mr. Pittman, our Executive Chairman, and Mr. Eccleshare, our Chief Executive Officer, to effect a smooth transition.  Mr. Mays has remained available to provide advice and input regarding long term strategy and vision.  Mr. Mays, Mr. Pittman and Mr. Eccleshare together have provided our Board with insight into our operations and helped facilitate the flow of information between management and the Board, and Messrs. Pittman and Eccleshare will continue to do so following the annual meeting.  In addition, the position of Presiding Director of our Board rotates quarterly among our independent directors, providing an additional layer of independent director oversight, as described above under “—Independence of Directors.”  For the reasons described above, our Board believes that this leadership structure is appropriate for us at this time.
 
Our risk management philosophy strives to:
 
·  
timely identify the material risks that Clear Channel Outdoor faces;
·  
communicate necessary information with respect to material risks to senior management and, as appropriate, to the Board or relevant Board committee;
·  
implement appropriate and responsive risk management strategies consistent with Clear Channel Outdoor’s risk profile; and
·  
integrate risk management into Clear Channel Outdoor’s decision-making.

The Board has designated the Audit Committee to oversee risk management.  The Audit Committee reports to the Board regarding briefings provided by management and advisors, as well as the Audit Committee’s own analysis and conclusions regarding the adequacy of Clear Channel Outdoor’s risk management processes.  In addition, Mr. Pittman (as our Executive Chairman and a member of our Board) and Mr. Eccleshare (as our Chief Executive Officer) are able to provide our Board with valuable insight into our risk profile and the options to mitigate and address our risks based on their respective experiences with the daily management of our business.  The Board encourages management to promote a corporate culture that incorporates risk management into Clear Channel Outdoor’s corporate strategy and day-to-day operations.



STOCKHOLDER AND INTERESTED PARTY COMMUNICATION WITH THE BOARD
 
Stockholders and other interested parties may contact an individual director, the Presiding Director, the Board as a group, or a specified Board committee or group, including the non-management directors as a group, by sending regular mail to the following address:
 
Board of Directors
Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc.
P.O. Box 659512
San Antonio, Texas 75265-9512
 
CODE OF BUSINESS CONDUCT AND ETHICS
 
Clear Channel Outdoor adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics applicable to all of its directors and employees, including its Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer (the “Code of Conduct”), which is a “code of ethics,” as defined by Item 406(b) of Regulation S-K.  The Code of Conduct is publicly available on Clear Channel Outdoor’s website at www.clearchanneloutdoor.com.  We intend to satisfy the disclosure requirements of Item 5.05 of Form 8-K regarding any amendment to, or waiver from, a provision of the Code of Conduct that applies to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer or principal accounting officer and relates to any element of the definition of code of ethics set forth in Item 406(b) of Regulation S-K by posting such information on our website, www.clearchanneloutdoor.com.
 
 
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
 
Except as otherwise stated, the table below sets forth information concerning the beneficial ownership of Clear Channel Outdoor’s common stock as of April 2, 2012 for: (1) each director currently serving on our Board and each of the nominees for director; (2) each of our named executive officers; (3) our directors and executive officers as a group; and (4) each person known to Clear Channel Outdoor to beneficially own more than 5% of any class of Clear Channel Outdoor’s outstanding shares of common stock.  At the close of business on April 2, 2012, there were 41,802,578 shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock outstanding and 315,000,000 shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class B common stock outstanding.   In addition, information concerning the beneficial ownership of common stock of CC Media, our indirect parent entity, by: (1) each director currently serving on our Board and each of the nominees for director; (2) each of our named executive officers; and (3) our directors and executive officers as a group is set forth in the footnotes to the table below.  At the close of business on April 2, 2012, there were 23,579,852 shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock, 555,556 shares of CC Media’s Class B common stock and 58,967,502 shares of CC Media’s Class C common stock outstanding.  Except as otherwise noted, each stockholder has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares beneficially owned.
 
Each share of Clear Channel Outdoor Class A common stock is entitled to one vote on matters submitted to a vote of the stockholders and each share of Clear Channel Outdoor Class B common stock is entitled to twenty votes on matters submitted to a vote of the stockholders.  Each share of our Class B common stock is convertible at the option of the holder thereof into one share of Class A common stock.  Each share of our common stock is entitled to share equally on a per share basis in any dividends and distributions by us.
 
 
 

 
   
Amount and Nature of Beneficial Ownership
                   
Name and Address of Beneficial Owner(a)
 
Number of Shares of Class A Common Stock
   
Number of Shares of Class B Common Stock
   
Percent of Class A Common Stock(b)
   
Percent of Class B Common Stock(b)
   
Percent of Outstanding Common Stock on an As-Converted Basis(b)
 
Holders of More than 5%:
                             
Clear Channel Communications, Inc.(c)
    1,553,971       315,000,000       3.7 %     100.0 %     88.7 %
Mason Capital Management LLC(d)
    5,072,946             12.1 %           1.4 %
GAMCO Asset Management, Inc. and affiliates(e)
    4,843,942             11.6 %           1.4 %
Canyon Capital Advisors LLC (f)
    4,099,505             9.8 %           1.1 %
Abrams Capital Management, L.P. and affiliates (g)
    3,354,390             8.0 %           *  
                                         
Named Executive Officers, Nominees, Executive Officers and Directors:
 
Jonathan D. Bevan(h)
    231,721             *             *  
James C. Carlisle (i)
                             
Thomas W. Casey(j)
                             
Ronald H. Cooper(k)
    49,292             *             *  
C. William Eccleshare(l)
    199,862             *             *  
Blair E. Hendrix(m)
                             
Douglas L. Jacobs(n)
    6,875             *             *  
Daniel G. Jones(i)
                             
Mark P. Mays(o)
    165,565             *             *  
Robert W. Pittman(p)
                             
Thomas R. Shepherd(q)
    2,500             *             *  
Christopher M. Temple(q)
    2,500             *             *  
Dale W. Tremblay(r)
    41,641             *             *  
Robert H. Walls, Jr. (s)
                             
Scott R. Wells(m)
                             
All directors and executive officers as a group (16 individuals)(t)
    1,080,824             2.5 %           *  
_________________
* Means less than 1%.
 
(a)  
Unless otherwise indicated, the address for all beneficial owners is c/o Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc., 200 East Basse Road, San Antonio, Texas 78209.
 
(b)  
Percentage of ownership calculated in accordance with Rule 13d-3(d)(1) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
 
(c)  
Represents 1,553,971 shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock held by CC Finco, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Clear Channel and 315,000,000 shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class B common stock held by Clear Channel Holdings, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Clear Channel.  Shares of Class B common stock are convertible on a one for one basis into shares of Class A common stock and entitle the holder to 20 votes per share upon all matters on which stockholders are entitled to vote.  The business address of CC Finco, LLC, Clear Channel Holdings, Inc. and Clear Channel is 200 E. Basse Road, San Antonio, Texas 78209.
 

 
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(d)  
As reported on a Schedule 13G/A filed with respect to Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock on February 14, 2012. The shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock reported in the Schedule 13G/A are directly owned by Mason Capital L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (“Mason Capital LP”), Mason Capital Master Fund, L.P., a Cayman Islands exempted limited partnership (“Mason Capital Master Fund”), and an account (the “Managed Account”) separately managed by Mason Capital Management LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Mason Management”).  Mason Management is the investment manager of each of Mason Capital LP, Mason Capital Master Fund and the Managed Account, and Mason Management may be deemed to have beneficial ownership over the shares of Class A common stock reported in the Schedule 13G/A by virtue of the authority granted to Mason Management by Mason Capital LP, Mason Capital Master Fund and the Managed Account to vote and exercise investment discretion over such shares. Kenneth M. Garschina and Michael E. Martino are managing principals of Mason Management and the sole members of Mason Management. Mason Capital Management, Mr. Garschina and Mr. Martino disclaim beneficial ownership of all shares reported in the Schedule 13G/A pursuant to 13d-4 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.  The business address of each reporting person is 110 East 59th Street, New York, New York 10022.
 
(e)  
As reported on a Schedule 13D/A filed with respect to Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock on March 12, 2012. The shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock reported in the Schedule 13D/A may be deemed to be beneficially owned by one or more of the following persons: GGCP, Inc. (“GGCP”), GGCP Holdings LLC (“GGCP Holdings”), GAMCO Investors, Inc. (“GBL”), Gabelli Funds, LLC (“Gabelli Funds”), GAMCO Asset Management Inc. (“GAMCO”), Teton Advisors, Inc. (“Teton Advisors”), Gabelli Securities, Inc. (“GSI”), Gabelli & Company, Inc. (“Gabelli & Company”), MJG Associates, Inc. (“MJG Associates”), Gabelli Foundation, Inc. (“Foundation”), MJG-IV Limited Partnership (“MJG”) and Mario Gabelli. Mario Gabelli is deemed to have beneficial ownership of the securities owned beneficially by each of GAMCO, Gabelli Funds, GSI and MJG.  GSI is deemed to have beneficial ownership of the securities owned beneficially by Gabelli & Company.  GBL and GGCP are deemed to have beneficial ownership of the securities owned beneficially by each of the foregoing persons other than Mario Gabelli and the Foundation. The business address of GBL, Gabelli Funds, Gabelli & Company, GAMCO, GSI, Teton Advisors and Mario Gabelli is One Corporate Center, Rye, New York 10580.  The business address of GGCP, GGCP Holdings and MJG Associates is 140 Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich, Connecticut 06850.  The business address of the Foundation is 165 West Liberty Street, Reno, Nevada 89501.
 
(f)  
As reported on a Schedule 13G/A filed with respect to Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock on February 14, 2012. The shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock reported in the Schedule 13G may be deemed to be beneficially owned by one or more of the following persons: Canyon Capital Advisors LLC (“CCA”), Mitchell R. Julis, Joshua S. Friedman and K. Robert Turner.  CCA is an investment advisor to various managed accounts, including Canyon Value Realization Fund, L.P., The Canyon Value Realization Master Fund (Cayman), L.P., Citi Canyon Ltd., Canyon Value Realization Fund MAC 18, Ltd., Canyon-GRF Master Fund, L.P., Canyon Balanced Master Fund, Ltd., Pernal Canyon Fund Ltd., Canyon Distressed Opportunity Investing Fund, L.P. and Canyon-GRF Master Fund II, L.P., with the right to receive, or the power to direct the receipt, of dividends from, or the proceeds from the sale of the securities held by, such managed accounts. Messrs. Julis, Friedman, and Turner control entities which own 100% of CCA.  The business address of each reporting person is 2000 Avenue of the Stars, 11th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90067.
 
(g)  
As reported on a Schedule 13G/A filed with respect to Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock on February 10, 2012. Shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock reported in the Schedule 13G/A for Abrams Capital Partners II, L.P. (“ACP II”) represent shares beneficially owned by ACP II.  Shares reported in the Schedule 13G/A for Abrams Capital, LLC (“Abrams Capital”) represent shares beneficially owned by ACP II and other private investment funds for which Abrams Capital serves as general partner.  Shares reported in the Schedule 13G/A for Abrams Capital Management, L.P. (“Abrams CM LP”) and Abrams Capital Management, LLC (“Abrams CM LLC”) represent the above-referenced shares beneficially owned by Abrams Capital and shares beneficially owned by another private investment fund for which Abrams CM LP serves as investment manager.  Abrams CM LLC is the general partner of Abrams CM LP.  Shares reported in the Schedule 13G/A for Mr. Abrams represent the above referenced shares reported for Abrams Capital and Abrams CM LLC.  Mr. Abrams is the managing member of Abrams Capital and Abrams CM LLC.  Each disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares reported except to the extent of its or his pecuniary interest therein.  The business address of each reporting person is c/o Abrams Capital Management, L.P., 222 Berkley Street, 22nd Floor, Boston, Massachusetts 02116.
 
As reported on a Schedule 13D filed on November 29, 2011, Abrams CM LP and affiliates also own 6,811,407 shares of the Class A common stock of CC Media, which represent 28.9% of CC Media’s Class A common stock and 8.2% of CC Media’s Class A common stock assuming all shares of CC Media’s Class B and Class C common stock are converted to shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock.  The CC Media shares reported in the Schedule 13D for ACP II represent shares beneficially owned by ACP II. Shares reported in the Schedule 13D for Abrams Capital represent shares beneficially owned by ACP II and other private investment vehicles for which Abrams Capital serves as general partner.  Shares reported in the Schedule 13D for Abrams CM LP and Abrams CM LLC represent shares beneficially owned by ACP II and other private investment vehicles (including those for which shares are reported for Abrams Capital) for which Abrams CM LP serves as investment manager.  Abrams CM LLC is the general partner of Abrams CM LP.  The CC Media shares reported in the Schedule 13D for Mr. Abrams represent the above referenced shares reported for Abrams Capital and Abrams CM LLC.  Mr. Abrams is the managing member of Abrams Capital and Abrams CM LLC.
 
 
 
13

 
(h)  
Includes vested stock options and stock options that will vest within 60 days after April 2, 2012 collectively representing 222,363 shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock held by Mr. Bevan.
 
(i)
Mr. Carlisle and Mr. Jones are a managing director and a director, respectively, at Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P.  Entities controlled by Bain Capital Partners, LLC and Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. hold all of the shares of CC Media’s Class B common stock and CC Media’s Class C common stock, and these shares represent a majority (whether measured by voting power or economic interest) of the equity of CC Media.

(j)  
As of April 2, 2012, Mr. Casey held vested stock options to purchase 125,000 shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock, which represented less than 1% of CC Media’s Class A common stock and less than 1% of CC Media’s Class A common stock assuming all shares of CC Media’s Class B and Class C common stock are converted to shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock.
 
(k)  
Includes vested stock options representing 16,666 shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock held by Mr. Cooper.
 
As of April 2, 2012, Mr. Cooper also held vested stock options representing 82,500 shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock, which represented less than 1% of CC Media’s Class A common stock and less than 1% of CC Media’s Class A common stock assuming all shares of CC Media’s Class B and Class C common stock are converted to shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock.
 
(l)  
Includes vested stock options representing 197,360 shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock held by Mr. Eccleshare.
 
(m)  
Mr. Hendrix and Mr. Wells are a managing director and an operating partner, respectively, at Bain Capital Partners, LLC.  Entities controlled by Bain Capital Partners, LLC and Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. hold all of the shares of CC Media’s Class B common stock and CC Media’s Class C common stock, and these shares represent a majority (whether measured by voting power or economic interest) of the equity of CC Media.
 
(n)  
Represents vested stock options and stock options that will vest within 60 days after April 2, 2012 collectively representing 6,875 shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock held by Mr. Jacobs.
 
(o)  
Includes vested stock options representing 150,000 shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock held by Mr. Mays.
 
As of April 2, 2012, Mr. Mays also held 245,124 shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock, 222,223 shares of unvested restricted Class A common stock of CC Media and stock options that are vested or will vest within 60 days after April 2, 2012 collectively representing 327,044 shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock.  In addition, Mr. Mays held indirectly 29,970 shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock through a trust of which Mr. Mays is the trustee.  These holdings represented 3.4% of CC Media’s Class A common stock and 1.0% of CC Media’s Class A common stock assuming all shares of CC Media’s Class B and Class C common stock are converted to shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock.
 
(p)  
As of April 2, 2012, Pittman CC LLC, a limited liability company controlled by Mr. Pittman, beneficially owned 706,215 shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock. These holdings represented 3.0% of CC Media’s Class A common stock and less than 1% of CC Media’s Class A common stock assuming all shares of CC Media’s Class B and Class C common stock are converted to shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock.
 
(q)  
Represents stock options that will vest within 60 days after April 2, 2012 representing 2,500 shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock held by each of Messrs. Shepherd and Temple.
 
(r)  
Includes vested stock options and stock options that will vest within 60 days after April 2, 2012 collectively representing 35,391 shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock held by Mr. Tremblay.
 
(s)  
As of April 2, 2012, Mr. Walls held vested stock options to purchase 25,000 shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock, which represented less than 1% of CC Media’s Class A common stock and less than 1% of CC Media’s Class A common stock assuming all shares of CC Media’s Class B and Class C common stock are converted to shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock.
 
(t)  
Includes vested stock options and stock options that will vest within 60 days after April 2, 2012 collectively representing 957,028 shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock and 5,253 shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock held indirectly through the 401(k) plan by such persons.
 
As of April 2, 2012, all of our directors and executive officers as a group were the beneficial owners of CC Media’s Class A common stock as follows: (1) 245,124 shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock held by such persons; (2) 222,223 shares of unvested restricted Class A common stock of CC Media’s held by such persons; (3) stock options to purchase 479,544 shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock that are vested and that will vest within 60 days after April 2, 2012; and (4) 736,185 shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock held indirectly.  These holdings represented 7.0% of CC Media’s Class A common stock and 2.0% of CC Media’s Class A common stock assuming all shares of CC Media’s Class B common stock and CC Media’s Class C common stock are converted to shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock.
 

 
14


PROPOSAL 1: ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
 
Director Mark P. Mays’ term will end at the annual meeting and he is not standing for re-election.  Our Board has decided not to replace Mr. Mays as a director at this time and, accordingly, the size of our Board will be reduced from ten to nine immediately prior to the annual meeting.  The Board has nominated the three persons listed as nominees below for election as directors at the annual meeting of stockholders.  Each of the nominees listed below currently is a director and is standing for re-election. Each of the directors elected at the annual meeting will serve a three year term or until his successor shall have been elected and qualified, subject to earlier death, resignation or removal.  The directors are to be elected by a plurality of the votes cast at the annual meeting.  Each nominee has indicated a willingness to serve as director if elected.  Should any nominee become unavailable for election, discretionary authority is conferred on the proxies to vote for a substitute.  Management has no reason to believe that any of the nominees will be unable or unwilling to serve if elected.
 
The following information, which is as of April 2, 2012, is furnished with respect to each of the nominees for election at our annual meeting and each of the other continuing members of our Board:

NOMINEES FOR DIRECTOR FOR TERMS EXPIRING IN 2015 (CLASS III)
 
James C. Carlisle, age 36, is a Managing Director at Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. (“THL”). Prior to joining THL in 2000, Mr. Carlisle worked at Goldman, Sachs & Co. in the Financial Institutions Group. Mr. Carlisle is currently a Board Observer at Univision Communications, Inc. and a Director of Sword Insurance Software. His prior directorships include Broadcast Media Partners, Inc., Front Line Management Companies, Inc. and Univision Communications, Inc. Mr. Carlisle holds a B.S.E., summa cum laude, in Operations Research from Princeton University and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School. He also serves as a member of the Board of Directors of The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary and is an active contributor to the National Park Foundation. Mr. Carlisle has been a member of our Board since January 2012.  Mr. Carlisle was selected to serve as a director based on his experience evaluating strategies, operations and risks gained through his work at Goldman, Sachs & Co. and THL, as well as his experience serving as a director for other media companies.
 
Robert W. Pittman, age 58, was appointed as Chief Executive Officer and a director of CC Media and Clear Channel and as Executive Chairman and a director of ours on October 2, 2011. Prior thereto, Mr. Pittman served as Chairman of Media and Entertainment Platforms for CC Media and Clear Channel since November 2010.  He has been a member of, and an investor in, Pilot Group, a private equity investment company, since April 2003.  Mr. Pittman was formerly Chief Operating Officer of AOL Time Warner, Inc. from May 2002 to July 2002.  He also served as Co-Chief Operating Officer of AOL Time Warner, Inc. from January 2001 to May 2002, and earlier, as President and Chief Operating Officer of America Online, Inc. from February 1998 to January 2001.  Mr. Pittman serves on the boards of numerous charitable organizations, including the Alliance for Lupus Research, the New York City Ballet, Public Theater, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation and the Robin Hood Foundation, where he has served as past Chairman.  Mr. Pittman was selected to serve as a director because of his service as Chief Executive Officer of CC Media and Clear Channel, as well as his extensive media experience gained through the course of his career.
 
Dale W. Tremblay, age 53, has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of C.H. Guenther & Son, Inc., a food marketing and manufacturing company, since July 2001.  Prior to joining C.H. Guenther & Son, Inc., Mr. Tremblay was an officer at the Quaker Oats Company, where he was responsible for all Worldwide Foodservice Businesses.  Mr. Tremblay has been a member of our Board since November 2005. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of Texas Capital Bank, on the Advisory Board for the Michigan State University Financial Analysis Lab and on the Advisory Board of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. Mr. Tremblay was selected to serve as a director based on his operational and managerial expertise gained through building and managing a large privately-held company.
 
The Board recommends that you vote “For” the director nominees named above.  Properly submitted proxies will be so voted unless stockholders specify otherwise.

 
15


 
DIRECTORS WHOSE TERMS WILL EXPIRE IN 2013 (CLASS I)
 
Blair E. Hendrix, age 47, is a Managing Director of Bain Capital Partners, LLC (“Bain Capital”) and one of the leaders of the firm’s operationally focused Portfolio Group.  Mr. Hendrix joined Bain Capital in 2000.  Prior to joining Bain Capital, Mr. Hendrix was Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of DigiTrace Care Services, Inc. (now SleepMed), a national healthcare services company he co-founded.  Earlier in his career, Mr. Hendrix was employed by Corporate Decisions, Inc. (now Oliver Wyman), a management consulting firm.  Mr. Hendrix also serves as a director of TWCC Holdings Corp. (The Weather Channel), Clear Channel and CC Media, and has previously served as a director of Keystone Automotive Operations, Inc., Innophos Holdings, Inc. and SMTC Corporation.  Mr. Hendrix received a B.A. from Brown University, awarded with honors.  Mr. Hendrix has been a member of our Board since August 2008.  Mr. Hendrix was selected to serve as a director because of his operational knowledge gained through his experience with Bain Capital and in management consulting.
 
Douglas L. Jacobs, age 64, has been self-employed since 2003.  He was the Executive Vice President and Treasurer for FleetBoston Financial Group from 1995 to 2003. His career began at Citibank in 1972, where he ultimately assumed the position of Division Executive for the Investment Banking Group’s MBS Group. Mr. Jacobs’ other directorships include Springleaf Finance, Inc. (and its subsidiary with securities traded on the NYSE, Springleaf Finance Corporation), Doral Financial Corporation and Fortress Investment Group LLC.  His previous directorships include ACA Capital Holdings, Inc., Global Signal Inc. and Hanover Capital Mortgage Holdings, Inc.  Mr. Jacobs holds a B.A. from Amherst College and an M.B.A. from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania.  Mr. Jacobs has been a member of our Board since May 2010.  Mr. Jacobs was selected to serve as a director for his operational, financial and capital markets experience as well as his experience evaluating risks gained through his service as an executive and as a director of several financial institutions.
 
Daniel G. Jones, age 37, is a Director at THL and is part of the firm’s Strategic Resource Group, which works in collaboration with senior management and THL investment professionals to drive value at portfolio companies.  Prior to joining THL in 2007, Mr. Jones was a management consultant at the Monitor Group, a global strategic advisory firm, from 2004 to 2007.  He also served as account leader at Monitor Clipper Fund.  Before Monitor, Mr. Jones worked in a variety of corporate finance roles, lastly as Financial Project Manager and Deputy to the Chief Financial Officer at LAN Airlines, one of the leading Latin American passenger and cargo airlines.  Mr. Jones has been a member of our Board since August 2008. He holds a B.A. from Dartmouth College and an M.B.A. from the MIT Sloan School of Management. Mr. Jones was selected to serve as a director for his experience in acquisitions and financings gained through his work in private equity at THL and his experience in evaluating strategies, operations and risks gained through his work as a consultant.
 
DIRECTORS WHOSE TERMS WILL EXPIRE IN 2014 (CLASS II)
 
Thomas R. Shepherd, age 82, is Chairman of TSG Equity Partners LLC, a Massachusetts venture capital and private equity investment firm that he co-founded in 1998, and also is a director of various privately-held companies.  From 1986 through 1998, Mr. Shepherd served as a managing director of THL.  Prior to joining THL, he previously served as President of GTE Lighting Products Group (GTE Sylvania) from 1983 through 1986, and was President of North American Philips Commercial Electronics Corporation from 1981 until 1983.  Mr. Shepherd previously served as a director of Andover.net, Inc., General Nutrition Centers, Inc., Signature Brands, Inc., Spectrum Brands, Inc. and Vermont Teddy Bear Co.  Mr. Shepherd received a Master of Industrial and Labor Relations degree from Cornell University, a B.A. in Economics from Washington & Lee University and completed the executive program at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth University.  Mr. Shepherd has been a member of our Board since May 2011.  Mr. Shepherd was selected to serve as a director because of his corporate and financial experience, including senior leadership roles in operations, management and private equity, as well as his service on multiple boards of directors.
 
Christopher M. Temple, age 44, is President of DelTex Capital LLC, a financial advisory and consulting firm.  Mr. Temple served as the President of Vulcan Capital, the private investment group of Vulcan Inc. from May 2009 until December 2009, and as Vice President of Vulcan Capital from September 2008 to May 2009.  Prior to joining Vulcan in September 2008, Mr. Temple served as a managing director at Tailwind Capital LLC from May 2008 to August 2008.  Prior to joining Tailwind, Mr. Temple was a managing director at Friend Skoler & Co., Inc. from May 2005 to May 2008.  From April 1996 to December 2004, Mr. Temple was a managing director at Thayer Capital Partners. Mr. Temple also serves as a director of Plains All American Pipeline GP, LLC and previously served on the board of directors of Charter Communications, Inc.  Mr. Temple holds a B.B.A., magna cum laude, from the University of Texas and an M.B.A. from Harvard University, and previously was a licensed CPA serving clients in the energy sector with KPMG in Houston, Texas.  Mr. Temple has been a member of our Board since May 2011.  Mr. Temple was selected to serve as a director because of his of financial and accounting knowledge, as well as his strategic experience gained through his private equity work and service on multiple boards of directors.
 

 
16


 
Scott R. Wells, age 43, has served as Operating Partner at Bain Capital since January 2011 and previously served as an Executive Vice President at Bain Capital since 2007.  Mr. Wells also is one of the leaders of the firm’s operationally focused Portfolio Group.  Prior to joining Bain Capital, he held several executive roles at Dell, Inc. from 2004 to 2007, most recently as Vice President of Public Marketing and On-line in the Americas.  Prior to joining Dell, Mr. Wells was a Partner at Bain & Company, where he focused primarily on technology and consumer-oriented companies.  Mr. Wells has been a member of our Board since August 2008.  He has an M.B.A., with distinction, from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and a B.S. from Virginia Tech.  Mr. Wells was selected to serve as a director for his experience in operations gained through his work serving as a senior executive at Dell and through his work as a consultant and for his experience in acquisitions and financings gained through his work in private equity at Bain Capital.
 
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Two derivative lawsuits were filed in 2012 in Delaware Chancery Court by stockholders of Clear Channel Outdoor, which is an indirect non-wholly owned subsidiary of Clear Channel, which is, in turn, an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of CC Media.  The lawsuits are captioned NECA-IBEW Pension Trust Fund v. Mays, et al., Case No. 7353CS, and City of Pinellas Park Firefighters Pension Board v. Covell, et al., Case No. 7315.  The complaints name as defendants certain of Clear Channel’s and Clear Channel Outdoor’s current and former directors and Clear Channel, as well Bain Capital and THL.  Clear Channel Outdoor also is named as a nominal defendant.  The complaints allege, among other things, that Clear Channel breached fiduciary duties to Clear Channel Outdoor and its stockholders by allegedly requiring Clear Channel Outdoor to enter into a loan transaction with Clear Channel.  The complaints further allege that Clear Channel was unjustly enriched as a result of that transaction.  The complaints also allege that the director defendants breached fiduciary duties to Clear Channel Outdoor in connection with that transaction and that the transaction constituted corporate waste.  Clear Channel Outdoor and Clear Channel were served with the complaints on March 26, 2012 and March 30, 2012, respectively.
 
 
PROPOSAL 2: APPROVAL OF THE ADOPTION OF THE 2012 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

BACKGROUND
 
    Our Board approved and adopted the Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. 2012 Stock Incentive Plan (the “Stock Incentive Plan”) on February 16, 2012.  The Stock Incentive Plan is effective on that date as long as it is approved by our stockholders within 12 months after that date.  Pursuant to the terms of the Stock Incentive Plan, no stock option awards may be exercisable and no shares may be granted pursuant to awards made pursuant to the Stock Incentive Plan until the Stock Incentive Plan is approved by our stockholders.
 
    The Stock Incentive Plan is a broad-based incentive plan that provides for granting stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, deferred stock awards, and performance-based cash and stock awards. The Board believes that our success and long-term progress are dependent upon attracting and retaining its directors, officers, employees, consultants, and advisers, and aligning the interests of such individuals with those of its stockholders. The Stock Incentive Plan gives the Compensation Committee the maximum flexibility to use various forms of incentive awards as part of our overall compensation program.
 
    The Board of Directors has determined that it is in the best interests of us and our stockholders to maximize the tax deductibility of performance-based cash and stock awards payable under the Stock Incentive Plan. Accordingly, we have structured the Stock Incentive Plan in a manner that payments made under it can satisfy the requirements for “performance-based” compensation within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code. In general, Section 162(m) places a limit on the deductibility for federal income tax purposes of the compensation paid to the Chief Executive Officer and our next four highest compensated officers (collectively, the “Covered Persons”) who were employed by us on the last day of our taxable year. Under Section 162(m), compensation paid to such persons in excess of $1 million in a taxable year generally is not deductible. However, compensation that qualifies as “performance-based” does not count against the $1 million limitation. The Stock Incentive Plan sets forth, among other things, the performance objectives under which awards may be paid under the plan.
 
    The closing sale price of our Class A common stock on April 2, 2012 was $8.02.

 
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PLAN SUMMARY

The principal features of the Stock Incentive Plan are summarized below. This summary does not purport to be complete, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Stock Incentive Plan attached as Appendix A to this Proxy Statement.

Administration

The Stock Incentive Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee; however, the full Board of Directors will have sole responsibility and authority for making and administering awards to any of our non-employee directors. Subject to the terms of the Stock Incentive Plan, the Compensation Committee has authority to (1) select the individuals that may participate in the plan, (2) prescribe the terms and conditions of each participant’s award and make amendments thereto, (3) construe, interpret, and apply the provisions of the Stock Incentive Plan and of any award made under the plan, and (4) take all other actions necessary to administer the plan. The Compensation Committee may delegate any of its responsibilities and authority to other persons, subject to applicable law.
 
Securities Covered by the Plan

Subject to adjustments as required or permitted by the Stock Incentive Plan’s terms, under the Stock Incentive Plan, we may issue a total of (1) 29,306,833 shares of our Class A common stock, $.01 par value per share, plus (2) the number of shares of common stock granted under our 2005 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended and restated, that would be considered “Lapsed Awards” under Section 3.2 of the Stock Incentive Plan (as more fully described below) had they been granted under the Stock Incentive Plan.
 
The following shares are not taken into account in applying these limitations: (1) shares covered by awards that expire or are canceled, forfeited, settled in cash, or otherwise terminated; (2) shares delivered to us or withheld by us for the payment or satisfaction of purchase price or tax withholding obligations associated with the exercise or settlement of an award; and (3) shares covered by stock-based awards assumed by us in connection with the acquisition of another company or business (collectively, “Lapsed Awards”).

Individual Award Limitations

In any calendar year, no participant may receive (1) awards covering more than one million (1,000,000) shares plus the amount of the participant’s unused annual limit as of the close of the preceding calendar year, and (2) performance-based cash awards under the Stock Incentive Plan exceeding more than five million dollars ($5,000,000) plus the amount of the participant’s unused annual dollar limit as of the close of the preceding calendar year.

Eligibility

Awards may be made under the Stock Incentive Plan to any of our or our subsidiaries’ present or future directors, officers, employees, consultants, or advisers. As of April 2, 2012, there were approximately 225 individuals eligible to participate in the Stock Incentive Plan. For purposes of the plan, a subsidiary is any entity in which the Company has a direct or indirect ownership interest of at least 50%.

 
 
 
18

 
Forms of Award
 
Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights. We may grant stock options that qualify as “incentive stock options” under Section 422 of the Code (“ISOs”), as well as stock options that do not qualify as ISOs. However, no ISOs may be granted subsequent to the tenth anniversary of the date that the Stock Incentive Plan is adopted. We also may grant stock appreciation rights (“SARs”). In general, a SAR gives the holder the right to receive the appreciation in value of the shares of our Class A common stock covered by the SAR from the date the SAR is granted to the date the SAR is exercised. The per share exercise price of a stock option and the per share base value of a SAR may not be less than the fair market value per share of Class A common stock on the date the option or SAR is granted. We may not reprice options granted under the Stock Incentive Plan without stockholder approval. Generally, the term of a stock option is ten years; provided, however, different limitations apply to ISOs granted to ten-percent stockholders: in such cases, the term may not be greater than five years and the exercise price may not be less than 110% of the fair market value per share of our Class A common stock on the date the option is granted.
 
The Compensation Committee may impose such exercise, forfeiture, and other terms and conditions as it deems appropriate with respect to stock options and SARs. The exercise price under a stock option may be paid in cash or in any other form or manner permitted by the Compensation Committee, including without limitation, payment of previously-owned shares of our Class A common stock or payment pursuant to broker-assisted cashless exercise procedures. Methods of exercise and settlement and other terms of SARs will be determined by the Compensation Committee.
 
The Compensation Committee may establish such exercise and other conditions applicable to an option following the termination of the optionee’s employment or other service with us and our subsidiaries as the Compensation Committee deems appropriate on a grant-by-grant basis.
 
Restricted Stock and Deferred Stock Awards. The Stock Incentive Plan authorizes the Compensation Committee to make restricted stock awards, pursuant to which shares of the Class A common stock are issued to designated participants subject to transfer restrictions and vesting conditions. Subject to such conditions as the Compensation Committee may impose, the recipient of a restricted stock award may be given the rights to vote and receive dividends on shares covered by the award pending the vesting or forfeiture of the shares.
 
Deferred stock awards generally consist of the right to receive shares of Class A common stock in the future, subject to such conditions as the Compensation Committee may impose including, for example, continuing employment or service for a specified period of time or satisfaction of specified performance criteria. Prior to settlement, deferred stock awards do not carry voting, dividend, or other rights associated with stock ownership; however, dividend equivalents may be payable or accrue if the Compensation Committee so determines.
 
Unless the Compensation Committee determines otherwise, shares of restricted stock and non-vested deferred stock awards will be forfeited upon the recipient’s termination of employment or other service with the Company and its subsidiaries.
 
Other Stock-Based Awards. The Stock Incentive Plan gives the Compensation Committee broad discretion to grant other types of equity-based awards, including, for example, dividend equivalent payment rights, phantom shares, and bonus shares, and to provide for settlement in cash and/or shares. The Stock Incentive Plan also allows non-employee directors to elect to receive all or part of their annual retainers in the form of shares of the Class A common stock in lieu of cash.
 
Performance-Based Awards. The Compensation Committee may also grant performance-based awards under the Stock Incentive Plan. In general, performance awards provide for the payment of cash and/or shares of Class A common stock upon the achievement of objective, predetermined performance objectives established by the Compensation Committee. Performance objectives may be based upon any one or more of the following business criteria:

·  
Earnings per share;
·  
Share price or total stockholder return;
·  
Pre-tax profits;
·  
Net earnings;
·  
Return on equity or assets;
·  
Revenues;
·  
Operating income before depreciation, amortization, and non-cash compensation expense, or “OIBDAN;”
·  
Market share or market penetration; or
·  
Any combination of the foregoing.
 
 
 
19

 
Performance objectives may be applied to an individual, a subsidiary, a business unit or division, the Company and any one or more of its subsidiaries, or such other operating units as the Compensation Committee may designate. Performance objectives may be expressed in absolute or relative terms and must include an objective formula or standard for computing the amount of compensation payable to an employee if the goal is attained. The Compensation Committee must certify in writing prior to payment of the performance award that the performance objectives and any other material terms of the award were in fact satisfied.

Adjustments of Awards

Generally, in the event of a split-up, spin-off, recapitalization, or consolidation of shares or any similar capital adjustment, or a change in the character or class of shares covered by the Stock Incentive Plan or any award made pursuant to the plan, we will adjust (1) the maximum number of shares of Class A common stock which may be issued under the Stock Incentive Plan, (2) the maximum number of shares of Class A common stock which may be covered by awards made to an individual in any calendar year, (3) the number of shares of Class A common stock subject to outstanding awards, and (4) where applicable, the exercise price, base price, target market price, or purchase price under outstanding awards, as required to equitably reflect the effect on the Class A common stock of such transactions or changes.
 
Generally, if we enter into a merger, consolidation, acquisition or disposition of property or stock, separation, reorganization, liquidation, or any other similar transaction or event so designated by the Board in its sole discretion (collectively, an “Exchange Transaction”), all outstanding options and SARs will either (1) become fully vested and exercisable immediately prior to the Exchange Transaction (and any such outstanding options or SARs which are not exercised before the Exchange Transaction will thereupon terminate), or (2), at the sole discretion of the Board, be assumed by and converted into options or SARs for shares of the acquiring company. The Board may make similar adjustments to other outstanding awards under the Stock Incentive Plan and may direct a cashout of any or all outstanding awards based upon the value of the consideration paid for our shares in the Exchange Transaction giving rise to the adjustment of plan awards.

Amendment and Termination of the Plan; Term

Except as may otherwise be required by law or the requirements of any stock exchange or market upon which our Class A common stock may then be listed, the Board, acting in its sole discretion and without further action on the part of our stockholders, may amend the Stock Incentive Plan at any time and from time to time and may terminate the Stock Incentive Plan at any time. No such amendment or termination may impair or adversely alter any awards previously granted under the plan (without the consent of the recipient or holder) or deprive any person of shares previously acquired under the plan.

Unless sooner terminated, the plan shall terminate on the tenth anniversary of the date of its adoption by our Board, or February 16, 2022.
 
U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES

The grant of a stock option or SAR under the Stock Incentive Plan is not a taxable event to the participant for federal income tax purposes. In general, ordinary income is realized upon the exercise of a stock option (other than an ISO) in an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value on the exercise date of the shares acquired pursuant to the exercise over the option exercise price paid for the shares. The amount of ordinary income realized upon the exercise of an SAR is equal to the excess of the fair market value of the shares covered by the exercise over the SAR base price. The Company generally will be entitled to a deduction equal to the amount of ordinary income realized by a participant upon the exercise of an option or SAR. The tax basis of shares acquired upon the exercise of a stock option (other than an ISO) or SAR is equal to the value of the shares on the date of exercise. Upon a subsequent sale of the shares, capital gain or loss (long-term or short-term, depending on the holding period of the shares sold) will be realized in an amount equal to the difference between the selling price and the basis of the shares. Certain additional rules apply if the exercise price of an option is paid in shares previously owned by participant.
 
 
 
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    No income is realized upon the exercise of an ISO other than for purposes of the alternative minimum tax. Income or loss is realized upon a disposition of shares acquired pursuant to the exercise of an ISO. If the disposition occurs more than one year after the ISO exercise date and more than two years after the ISO grant date, then gain or loss on the disposition, measured by the difference between the selling price and the option exercise price for the shares, will be long-term capital gain or loss. If the disposition occurs within one year of the exercise date or within two years of the grant date, then the gain realized on the disposition will be taxable as ordinary income to the extent such gain is not more than the difference between the value of the shares on the date of exercise and the exercise price, and the balance of the gain, if any, will be capital gain. The Company is not entitled to a deduction with respect to the exercise of an ISO; however, it is entitled to a deduction corresponding to the ordinary income realized by a participant upon a disposition of shares acquired pursuant to the exercise of an ISO before the satisfaction of the applicable one- and two-year holding period requirements described above.
 
    In general, a participant will realize ordinary income with respect to common stock received pursuant to a restricted stock award at the time the shares become vested in accordance with the terms of the award in an amount equal to the fair market value of the shares at the time they become vested, and except as discussed below, the Company is generally entitled to a corresponding deduction. The participant’s tax basis in the shares will be equal to the ordinary income so recognized. Upon subsequent disposition of the shares, the participant will realize long-term or short-term capital gain or loss, depending on the holding period of the shares sold.
 
    A participant may make an “early income election” within 30 days of the receipt of restricted shares of common stock, in which case the participant will realize ordinary income on the date the restricted shares are received equal to the difference between the value of the shares on that date and the amount, if any, paid for the shares. In such event, any appreciation in the value of the shares after the date of the award will be taxable as capital gain upon a subsequent disposition of the shares. The Company’s deduction is limited to the amount of ordinary income realized by the participant as a result of the early income election.
 
    A participant who receives deferred stock awards will be taxed at ordinary income tax rates on the then fair market value of the shares of common stock distributed at the time of settlement of the deferred stock awards and, except as discussed below, the Company will generally be entitled to a tax deduction at that time. The participant’s tax basis in the shares will equal the amount taxed as ordinary income, and on subsequent disposition the participant will realize long-term or short-term capital gain or loss.
 
    Other awards will generally result in ordinary income to the participant at the later of the time of delivery of cash, shares, or other awards, or the time that either the risk of forfeiture or restriction on transferability lapses on previously delivered cash, shares, or other awards. Except as discussed below, the Company generally will be entitled to a tax deduction equal to the amount recognized as ordinary income by the participant in connection with an award, but will be entitled to no tax deduction relating to amounts that represent a capital gain to a participant.
Section 162(m) generally allows the Company to obtain tax deductions without limit for performance-based compensation. The Company intends that options and SARs, and, subject to stockholder approval of the performance objectives described herein, contingent long-term performance awards granted under the Stock Incentive Plan will continue to qualify as performance-based compensation not subject to the $1 million deductibility cap under Section 162(m). A number of requirements must be met in order for particular compensation to so qualify. However, there can be no assurance that such compensation under the plan will be fully deductible under all circumstances. In addition, other awards under the Stock Incentive Plan, such as restricted stock and other stock-based awards, generally may not qualify, so that compensation paid to executive officers in connection with such awards may not be deductible.

 
 
 
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THE ABOVE SUMMARY PERTAINS SOLELY TO CERTAIN U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES ASSOCIATED WITH AWARDS MADE UNDER THE STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN AND DOES NOT PURPORT TO BE COMPLETE. THE SUMMARY DOES NOT ADDRESS ALL FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES AND IT DOES NOT ADDRESS STATE, LOCAL, AND NON-U.S. TAX CONSIDERATIONS.
 
NEW PLAN BENEFITS

The Compensation Committee and the Board, as applicable, in their discretion determine awards granted under the Stock Incentive Plan and, therefore, we are unable to determine the awards that will be granted in the future under the Stock Incentive Plan.
 
EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION

Except for the Stock Incentive Plan, our only other equity plan is the 2005 Stock Incentive Plan, which shall automatically terminate (other than with respect to outstanding awards) upon the approval of the Stock Incentive Plan pursuant to this proposal and after such termination there shall be no shares available for grant under the 2005 Stock Incentive Plan. Information regarding the 2005 Stock Incentive Plan as of December 31, 2011 is outlined in the following table.

Plan category
 
Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights (a)
   
Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights (b)
   
Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in column (a)) (c)
 
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders(1)
    9,073,719     $ 14.96       31,341,582  
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders
                —   
Total
    9,073,719     $ 14.96       31,341,582  
 
__________________

(1)
Represents the 2005 Stock Incentive Plan.  As described above, the 2005 Stock Incentive Plan shall automatically terminate (other than with respect to outstanding awards) upon stockholder approval of the 2012 Stock Incentive Plan and after such termination there shall be no shares available for grant under the 2005 Stock Incentive Plan.

The Board recommends that you vote “For” approval of the adoption of the 2012 Stock Incentive Plan.  Properly submitted proxies will be so voted unless stockholders specify otherwise.


PROPOSAL 3: APPROVAL OF THE ADOPTION OF THE
AMENDED AND RESTATED 2006 ANNUAL INCENTIVE PLAN

 
BACKGROUND

The Board has approved and adopted the Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. Amended and Restated 2006 Annual Incentive Plan (the “Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan”). Pursuant to its terms the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan will terminate unless it is approved by our stockholders at the annual meeting. The purpose of the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan is to provide performance-based compensation to executive officers and other selected key employees of the Company and its subsidiaries that will not be subject to the executive compensation deduction limitations of Section 162(m) of the Code.
 
 
 
 
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Under the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan, our Compensation Committee will designate performance objectives with respect to a performance period for each plan participant. Utilizing those performance objectives, the Compensation Committee uses the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan to reward accomplishments achieved during the performance period. The Board believes that the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan benefits stockholders because it creates a strong incentive for executives to meet or exceed specified performance goals.

The Board has determined that it is in the best interests of us and our stockholders to maximize the tax deductibility of amounts payable under the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan. Accordingly, we have structured the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan in a manner that payments made under it can satisfy the requirements for “performance-based” compensation within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code. In general, Section 162(m) places a limit on the deductibility for federal income tax purposes of the compensation paid to the Covered Persons. Under Section 162(m), compensation paid to such persons in excess of $1 million in a taxable year is not generally deductible. However, compensation that qualifies as “performance-based” does not count against the $1 million limitation. The Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan sets forth, among other things, the performance objectives under which bonuses may be paid under the plan. Pursuant to Section 162(m), if our stockholders approve the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan and the other requirements of Section 162(m) are satisfied with respect to awards under the plan, amounts paid to the Covered Persons pursuant to the plan in forthcoming periods will qualify as fully tax-deductible to us, potentially generating substantial after-tax savings.

PLAN SUMMARY

The principal features of the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan are summarized below. This summary does not purport to be complete, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan attached as Appendix B to this Proxy Statement.

Administration

The Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee. Subject to the terms of the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan, the Compensation Committee has the authority to (1) select the individuals who may participate in the plan, (2) prescribe the terms and conditions of each participant’s award and make amendments thereto, (3) determine whether the performance objectives have been met, and (4) take all other actions necessary to administer the plan.

Eligibility

Executive officers and other key employees of the Company and its subsidiaries selected by the Compensation Committee will be eligible to participate in the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan.  As of April 2, 2012, approximately 15 individuals were eligible to participate in the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan.

Performance Awards

Performance objectives may be based upon any one or more of the following criteria:

·  
Revenue growth;
·  
Operating income before depreciation and amortization and non-cash compensation expense (“OIBDAN”);
·  
OIBDAN growth;
·  
Funds from operations;
·  
Funds from operations per share and per share growth;
·  
Cash available for distribution;
·  
Cash available for distribution per share and per share growth;
·  
Operating income and operating income growth;
·  
Net earnings;
·  
Earnings per share and per share growth;
·  
Return on equity;
·  
Return on assets;
·  
Share price performance on an absolute basis and relative to an index;
·  
Improvements in attainment of expense levels;
·  
Implementing or completion of critical projects; or
·  
Improvements in cash-flow (before or after tax).
 
 
 
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The amount of an award, if any, payable to a participant will depend upon whether and the extent to which the performance objective(s) of the award are achieved during the applicable performance period. Performance objectives may be established on a periodic, annual, cumulative, or average basis, and may be established on a corporate-wide basis and/or with respect to operating units, divisions, subsidiaries, acquired businesses, minority investments, partnerships or joint ventures. The Compensation Committee may establish different payout levels based upon the levels of achievement of the performance objectives specified in the award. Awards may contain more than one performance objective and performance objectives may be based upon multiple performance criteria. Multiple performance objectives contained in an award may be aggregated, weighted, expressed in the alternative or otherwise specified by the Compensation Committee. The level or levels of performance specified with respect to a performance objective may be expressed in absolute terms, as objectives relative to performance in prior periods, as an objective compared to the performance of one or more comparable companies or an index covering multiple companies, or otherwise as the Compensation Committee may determine.

Maximum Annual Amount Payable to a Participant

No participant may earn more than $15,000,000 in any calendar year pursuant to an award under the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan.

Plan Operation

Performance objectives will be established by the Compensation Committee and communicated to the participant by the 90th day of the applicable performance period or, if earlier, before 25% of the applicable performance period has elapsed. The Compensation Committee will determine the performance period applicable to an award. Subject to the requirements of the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan and applicable law, each award will contain such other terms and conditions as the Compensation Committee, acting in its discretion, may prescribe.

Payment of Awards

Upon certification of the achievement of performance objectives by the Compensation Committee and subject to any deferral arrangements or other conditions that may be permitted or required by the Compensation Committee, the award will be settled in cash.

The Compensation Committee is authorized to reduce or eliminate the performance award of any participant, for any reason, including changes in the participant’s position or duties, whether due to termination of employment (including death, disability, retirement, voluntary termination, or termination with or without cause) or otherwise. To the extent necessary to preserve the intended economic effects of the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan or an award under the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan, the Compensation Committee is authorized to adjust pre-established performance objectives and other terms of performance awards to take into account certain material events, including: (1) a change in corporate capitalization; (2) a material or extraordinary corporate transaction involving the Company or a subsidiary, including, without limitation, a merger, consolidation, reorganization, spin-off, or the sale of a subsidiary or of the assets of a business or division; (3) a partial or complete liquidation of the Company or any subsidiary; or (4) certain changes in accounting rules; provided, however, that no such adjustment may cause a performance award to fail to be non-deductible under Section 162(m) of the Code.

 
 
 
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Unless the Compensation Committee determines otherwise, no payment related to an award will be made to a participant whose employment with the Company and its subsidiaries terminates (for any reason other than death) before the payment date of the award.

Duration and Amendment

The Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan was effective as of January 1, 2006 and will terminate on May 18, 2012, unless the plan is approved by our stockholders at the annual meeting. The Board or the Compensation Committee may, at any time or from time to time, amend the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan. Amendments may be made without stockholder approval, unless such approval is required to maintain the status of the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan under Section 162(m) of the Code. The Board may terminate the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan at any time.
 
U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES

All amounts paid under the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan constitute taxable income to the participant when received. If the Compensation Committee so allows under the terms of the plan, a participant may be able to elect to defer a portion of the bonus, and as a result may be entitled to defer the recognition of income. Generally, and subject to Section 162(m) of the Code, the Company will be entitled to a federal income tax deduction when amounts paid under the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan are included in the employee’s income.
 
As stated above, the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan is being submitted for stockholder approval so that cash bonuses paid under the plan qualify for tax deductibility by the Company. However, stockholder approval is only one of several requirements under Section 162(m), and stockholder approval of the plan should not be viewed as a guarantee that all amounts paid under the plan will be deductible by the Company.

THE ABOVE SUMMARY OF THE U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES DOES NOT PURPORT TO BE COMPLETE. THE PRECEDING DISCUSSION IS ONLY A GENERAL SUMMARY OF THE FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES CONCERNING THE AMENDED AND RESTATED ANNUAL INCENTIVE PLAN AND DOES NOT ADDRESS THE TAX CONSEQUENCES ARISING IN THE CONTEXT OF A PARTICIPANT’S DEATH OR THE INCOME TAX LAWS OF ANY MUNICIPALITY, STATE, OR FOREIGN COUNTRY IN WHICH A PARTICIPANT’S INCOME OR GAIN MAY BE TAXABLE.

NEW PLAN BENEFITS

The Committee has awarded grants with respect to 2012 performance to certain employees.  However, we are unable to determine the value of those awards because they are based on 2012 corporate performance, in combination with individual performance goals that are specific to 2012.  Accordingly, the table below sets forth, as of April 2, 2012, the target amounts for the outstanding awards that have been granted under the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan (subject to applicable performance goals) to: (1) each of our named executive officers (listed individually below); (2) all of our current executive officers as a group; (3) all of our directors who are not executive officers as a group; and (4) all of our other employees, including all current officers who are not executive officers, as a group, respectively:
 
 
 
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Name
 
2012 Target Annual
Incentive Plan Award(a) ($)
 
Mark P. Mays
     
Thomas W. Casey
     
Robert H. Walls, Jr.
     
C. William Eccleshare
    1,076,235  
Ronald H. Cooper
     
Jonathan D. Bevan
    513,149  
All Executive Officers, as a Group (7 people)
    2,129,384  
All Directors Who are Not Executive Officers, as a Group (9 people)
     
All Other Non-Executive Officer Employees, as a Group
    4,032,814  
 
__________________
(a)  
All amounts have been converted from local currencies to U.S. dollars using the following average exchange rates for the year ended December 31, 2011: £1=$1.60359 (in the case of Messrs. Eccleshare and Bevan and the other participants who are citizens of the United Kingdom); Australian $1=$1.03 (in the case of the participant who is a citizen of Australia); Swedish Kronor 1=$0.15 (in the case of the participant who is a citizen of Sweden); and €1=$1.39 (in the case of the participant who is a citizen of France).
 
    Messrs. Mays, Casey, Walls and Cooper are named executive officers, but do not participate in the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan at this time.  Of our seven executive officers as a group, only three currently participate in the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan.  Our directors (including Messrs. Mays and Pittman, who are employed by CC Media) do not participate in the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan.

FUTURE PLAN AWARDS
 
    Future cash awards under the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan are based on satisfaction of pre-established performance objectives during each applicable performance period and, therefore, are not determinable at this time.
 
    If our stockholders approve the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan, the plan will continue for 2012 and future years as permitted by applicable law. If our stockholders do not approve the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan, the plan will terminate at the annual meeting.
 
    In considering whether to vote for approval of the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan, you should be aware that certain of our executive officers have received, and in the future may continue to receive, awards under this plan (if approved by the stockholders). Failure of the stockholders to approve this proposal will not affect the awards previously granted under the Amended and Restated Annual Incentive Plan.
 
    The Board recommends that you vote “For” approval of the adoption of the Amended and Restated 2006 Annual Incentive Plan.  Properly submitted proxies will be so voted unless stockholders specify otherwise.


 
 
 
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COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT
 
    The Compensation Committee of the Board has reviewed and discussed the Compensation Discussion and Analysis included in this proxy statement with management. Based on such review and discussion, the Compensation Committee recommended to the Board that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in this proxy statement.
 
Respectfully submitted,
 
THE COMPENSATION COMMITTEE
Dale W. Tremblay, Chairman
Douglas L. Jacobs


COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
 
    The following Compensation Discussion and Analysis contains statements regarding Company and individual performance measures and other goals.  These goals are disclosed in the limited context of our executive compensation program and should not be understood to be statements of management’s expectations or estimates of results or other guidance.  Further, the Company performance measures used for purposes of executive compensation, as described more fully below, differ from segment results reported in our financial statements.  Segment results are used to measure the overall financial performance of the Company’s segments, while the performance measures used for compensation purposes are used in connection with assessing the performance of executives.  We specifically caution investors not to apply the following discussion to other contexts.
 
OVERVIEW AND OBJECTIVES OF OUR COMPENSATION PROGRAM
 
    We believe that compensation of our named executive officers should be directly and materially linked to operating performance.  The fundamental objective of our compensation program is to attract, retain and motivate top quality executives through compensation and incentives which are competitive with the various labor markets and industries in which we compete for talent and which align the interests of our executives with the interests of our stockholders.
 
    Overall, we have designed our compensation program to:
 
·  
support our business strategy and business plan by clearly communicating what is expected of executives with respect to goals and results and by rewarding achievement;
·  
recruit, motivate and retain executive talent; and
·  
align executive performance with stockholder interests.
 
    We seek to achieve these objectives through a variety of compensation elements, as summarized below:
 
 
 
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Element
 
Form
 
Purpose
Base salary
 
Cash
 
Provide a competitive level of base compensation in recognition of responsibilities, value to the Company and individual performance
Bonus
 
Cash
 
Through annual incentive bonuses, recognize and provide an incentive for performance that achieves specific corporate and/or individual goals intended to correlate closely with the growth of long-term stockholder value
Long-Term Incentive Compensation
 
Generally stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units or other
equity-based compensation
 
Incentivize achievement of long-term goals, enable retention and/or recognize achievements and promotions—in each case aligning compensation over a multi-year period directly with the interests of stockholders by creating an equity stake
Other benefits and perquisites
 
Retirement plans, health and welfare plans and certain perquisites (such as club dues, relocation benefits and payment of legal fees in connection with promotions/new hires, transportation and other services)
 
Provide tools for employees to pursue financial security through retirement benefits, promote the health and welfare of all employees and provide other specific benefits of value to individual executive officers
Severance
 
Varies by circumstances of separation
 
Facilitate an orderly transition in the event of management changes

In May 2011, we held a stockholder advisory vote on the compensation of our named executive officers.  More than 99% of the votes cast on the matter approved the compensation of our named executive officers as disclosed in our 2011 proxy statement.  Accordingly, we made no significant changes to the objectives or structure of our executive compensation program.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER COMPENSATION
 
On March 31, 2011, Mark P. Mays retired as our Chief Executive Officer.  In connection with Mr. Mays’ retirement, on March 31, 2011 our Board (1) established a new “Office of the Chief Executive Officer” to serve the functions of the Chief Executive Officer and President until such time that a permanent replacement for Mr. Mays was hired and (2) appointed Thomas W. Casey (our Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer) and Robert H. Walls, Jr. (our Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary) to serve in the newly-created office in addition to their existing offices, which they retained.  On January 24, 2012, C. William Eccleshare, previously our Chief Executive Officer—International, was promoted to be our Chief Executive Officer, overseeing both our Americas and International divisions, at which time our Office of the Chief Executive Officer ceased to exist.
 
The following of our named executive officers are employed and compensated by CC Media:
 
·  
Mark P. Mays, who served as our Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) until his retirement on March 31, 2011 and who will remain a member of our Board until the annual meeting;
·  
Thomas W. Casey, our Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer), who also served in our Office of the Chief Executive Officer from March 31, 2011 through December 31, 2011 (Principal Executive Officer); and
·  
Robert H. Walls, Jr., our Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary, who also served in our Office of the Chief Executive Officer from March 31, 2011 through December 31, 2011 (Principal Executive Officer).

 
 
 
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Accordingly, the 2011 compensation for Messrs. Mays, Casey and Walls was set by the Compensation Committee and Executive Performance Subcommittee (the “Subcommittee”) of the Board of Directors of CC Media.  Clear Channel Outdoor’s Compensation Committee had no involvement in recommending or approving their compensation.
 
As described below under “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—CC Media Holdings, Inc.—Corporate Services Agreement,” a portion of the 2011 compensation for Messrs. Mays, Casey and Walls was allocated to us in recognition of their services provided to us pursuant to a Corporate Services Agreement between us and a subsidiary of CC Media.  Those allocated amounts are reflected in the Summary Compensation Table below, along with any compensation that we or our subsidiaries provided to them directly.  See footnote (f) to the Summary Compensation Table below for a description of the allocations.  Additionally, upon termination or a change in control, a portion of certain payments that would be due to Messrs. Casey and Walls would be allocated to us, as reflected in the Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control table set forth below.  These allocations were or would be made, as applicable, based on Clear Channel Outdoor’s OIBDAN (as defined below) as a percentage of Clear Channel’s OIBDAN for the prior year, each as reported in connection with year-end financial results.  For purposes of these allocations, OIBDAN is defined as: consolidated net income (loss) adjusted to exclude non-cash compensation expense and the following line items presented in the Statement of Operations: Income tax benefit (expense); Other income (expense) - net; Equity in earnings (loss) of nonconsolidated affiliates; Gain (loss) on marketable securities; Interest expense; Other operating income (expense) – net; Depreciation & Amortization; and Impairment charges.
 
All references in this Compensation Discussion and Analysis to compensation policies and practices for our executive officers should be read to exclude the compensation policies and practices applicable to the named executive officers listed above and any other executive officers whose compensation was determined by CC Media.  Accordingly, references in this Compensation Discussion and Analysis to our named executive officers are intended to include:

· 
C. William Eccleshare, who served as our Chief Executive Officer—International until his January 24, 2012 promotion to Chief Executive Officer, overseeing both our Americas and International divisions;
· 
Ronald H. Cooper, who served as our Chief Executive Officer—Americas until his February 7, 2012 termination of service; and
· 
Jonathan D. Bevan, who served as our Chief Operating Officer—International until his February 1, 2012 promotion to Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer—International.
 
COMPENSATION PRACTICES
 
The Compensation Committee typically determines total compensation, as well as the individual components of such compensation, of our named executive officers on an annual basis.  All compensation decisions are made within the scope of each named executive officer’s employment agreement.
 
In making decisions with respect to each element of executive compensation, the Compensation Committee considers the total compensation that may be awarded to the executive, including salary, annual incentive bonus and long-term incentive compensation.  Multiple factors are considered in determining the amount of total compensation awarded to the named executive officers, including:
 
·  
the terms of our named executive officers’ employment agreements;
·  
the recommendations of the Chief Executive Officer and, for 2011 compensation, the Chief Executive Officer—Americas and Chief Executive Officer—International (other than recommendations for themselves);
·  
the value of previous equity awards;
·  
internal pay equity considerations; and
·  
broad trends in executive compensation generally.

The goal is to award compensation that is reasonable when all elements of potential compensation are considered.
 
 
 
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ELEMENTS OF COMPENSATION
 
As described above, we believe that a combination of various elements of compensation best serves the interests of Clear Channel Outdoor and its stockholders.  Having a variety of compensation elements enables us to meet the requirements of the highly competitive environment in which we operate while ensuring that our named executive officers are compensated in a way that advances the interests of all stockholders.  Under this approach, executive compensation generally involves a significant portion of pay that is “at risk,” namely, the annual incentive bonus.  The annual incentive bonus is based entirely on Company financial performance, individual performance or a combination of both.  In conjunction with the annual incentive bonus awards, the Compensation Committee also may provide annual discretionary bonuses to our named executive officers, which also would be based on Company financial performance, individual performance or a combination of both.  Equity awards constitute a significant portion of long-term remuneration that is tied directly to stock price appreciation, which benefits all stockholders.
 
Our practices with respect to each of the elements of executive compensation are set forth below, followed by a discussion of the specific factors considered in determining the amounts for each of the key elements.

Base Salary
 
Administration.  Base salaries for executive officers typically are reviewed on an annual basis and at the time of promotion or other change in responsibilities.  In general, any increases in salary will be based on the subjective evaluation of factors such as the level of responsibility, individual performance, level of pay both of the executive in question and other similarly situated executives and competitive pay practices.  All decisions regarding increasing or decreasing an executive officer’s base salary are made within the scope of the executive’s respective employment agreement, if any.  In the case of our named executive officers, each of their employment agreements contains a minimum level of base salary, as described below under “Executive Compensation—Employment Agreements with the Named Executive Officers.”
 
In reviewing base salaries, the Compensation Committee considers the importance of linking a significant proportion of the named executive officer’s compensation to performance in the form of the annual incentive bonus (plus any annual discretionary bonus), which is tied to Company financial performance measures, individual performance, or a combination of both, as well as long-term incentive compensation.
 
Analysis.  We hired Messrs. Eccleshare and Cooper in September 2009 and December 2009, respectively.  Messrs. Eccleshare and Cooper did not receive annual base salary increases in 2011; however, Mr. Eccleshare’s base salary increased from £486,577 (or $780,270 using the average exchange rate of ₤1=$1.60359 for the year ended December 31, 2011) to £671,141 (or $1,076,235 using the average exchange rate of ₤1=$1.60359 for the year ended December 31, 2011) in connection with his promotion on January 24, 2012.  For 2011, Mr. Bevan’s annual base salary increased from £240,000 (or $384,862 using the average exchange rate of ₤1=$1.60359 for the year ended December 31, 2011) to £265,000 (or $424,951 using the average exchange rate of ₤1=$1.60359 for the year ended December 31, 2011) in connection with his promotion to the position of Chief Operating Officer—International. Mr. Bevan’s base salary further increased to £320,000 (or $513,149 using the average exchange rate of ₤1=$1.60359 for the year ended December 31, 2011) in connection with his promotion to the position of Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer—International on February 1, 2012.  For a more detailed description of the employment agreements of the named executive officers, please refer to “Executive Compensation—Employment Agreements with the Named Executive Officers.”
 
Annual Incentive Bonus
 
Administration.  Each of our named executive officers, other than Messrs. Mays, Casey and Walls, participates in our 2006 Annual Incentive Plan (the “Annual Incentive Plan”).  The Annual Incentive Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee and is intended to provide an incentive to the named executive officers and other selected key executives to contribute to the growth, profitability and increased stockholder value and to retain such executives.  Under the Annual Incentive Plan, participants are eligible for performance-based awards, which represent the conditional right to receive cash or other property based upon the achievement of pre-established performance goals within a specified performance period.  No single participant may receive more than $15,000,000 in awards in any calendar year.  Awards granted under the Annual Incentive Plan generally are intended to qualify for the performance-based compensation exception under Section 162(m) of the Code.
 
 
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The performance goals for our named executive officers are set pursuant to an extensive annual operating plan developed by the Chief Executive Officer in consultation with the Board, the Chief Financial Officer and other senior executive officers of Clear Channel Outdoor, within any parameters specified within each executive’s employment agreement.  The Chief Executive Officer makes recommendations as to the compensation levels and performance goals of our named executive officers (other than his own and those of the officers whose compensation is determined by CC Media, as described above) to the Compensation Committee for its review, consideration, and approval.  The Compensation Committee has complete discretion to accept, reject, or modify the recommendations of the Chief Executive Officer.
 
The 2011 annual incentive bonus was paid in cash at the end of February 2012, and is reflected in the Non-Equity Incentive Compensation Plan column of the Summary Compensation Table (other than for Mr. Cooper).  Mr. Cooper’s annual incentive bonus is reflected in the Bonus column of the Summary Compensation Table because his annual incentive bonus for 2011 was determined in connection with his Severance Agreement and General Release before our reportable OIBDAN for 2011 was finalized.  The aggregate annual incentive bonus is determined according to the level of achievement of the objective performance goals and any individual performance goals, as applicable.  Below a minimum threshold level of performance, no awards may be granted pursuant to the objective performance goal, and the Compensation Committee may, in its discretion, reduce the awards pursuant to either objective or individual performance goals, as applicable.
 
The annual incentive bonus process for our named executive officers involves four basic steps:
 
·  
at the outset of the fiscal year:
 
·  
set performance goals for the year for Clear Channel Outdoor and the operating divisions;
·  
set individual performance goals for each participant; and
·  
set a target bonus for each participant; and
 
·  
after the end of the fiscal year, measure actual performance against the predetermined goals of Clear Channel Outdoor and the operating divisions and any individual performance goals to determine the bonus.
 
From time to time, the Compensation Committee also awards discretionary bonuses to certain executive officers.  Our Compensation Committee did not grant discretionary bonuses to our named executive officers for 2011.
 
Analysis.  In determining whether the 2011 financial performance goals were met, the Compensation Committee considered the financial results of Clear Channel Outdoor from January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011.  For 2011, the performance-based goals applicable to our named executive officers are set forth below.
 
C. William Eccleshare
 
Mr. Eccleshare’s target bonus for 2011 was set at 100% of his base salary for 2011, or £486,577 (or $780,270 using the average exchange rate of ₤1=$1.60359 for the year ended December 31, 2011), with 70% attributed to achieving OIBDAN in the International division of $359 million and 30% attributed to achieving the other qualitative performance objectives described below.  His maximum bonus for 2011 was set at £973,154 (or $1,560,540 using the average exchange rate of ₤1=$1.60359 for the year ended December 31, 2011).  For purposes of calculating Mr. Eccleshare’s bonus, OIBDAN is our OIBDAN before restructuring charges, which is defined as consolidated net income (loss) adjusted to include the results of non-consolidated joint ventures as if they were consolidated, and adjusted to exclude the following items: non-cash compensation expense; income tax benefit (expense); other income (expense)-net; equity in earnings (loss) of nonconsolidated affiliates; gain (loss) on marketable securities; interest expense; other operating income (expense)-net; depreciation and amortization; impairment charges; restructuring charges, the impact of foreign currency and other items, except only for the International division.  Mr. Eccleshare’s individual qualitative performance objectives for 2011 consisted of: (1) improving OIBDAN margins for the International division; (2) successfully deploying a new shared business tracking system throughout the International division; (3) achieving budgeted yield improvements as compared to 2010; and (4) providing leadership and vision for the International division.  The 2011 International division OIBDAN was approximately $362 million, which exceeded the OIBDAN target and, in connection with his maximum achievement of his qualitative performance objectives described above, resulted in Mr. Eccleshare receiving an annual incentive bonus of ₤573,796 (or $920,134 using the average exchange rate of ₤1=$1.60359 for the year ended December 31, 2011).
 
 
 
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Ronald H. Cooper
 
Mr. Cooper’s target bonus for 2011 was set at $1,000,000, with 70% attributed to achieving OIBDAN in the Americas division of $532 million and 30% attributed to achieving the other qualitative performance objectives described below.  His maximum bonus for 2011 was set at $2,000,000.  For purposes of calculating Mr. Cooper’s bonus, OIBDAN is our reportable OIBDAN before restructuring charges, which is defined as consolidated net income (loss) adjusted to exclude the following items: non-cash compensation expense; income tax benefit (expense); other income (expense)-net; equity in earnings (loss) of nonconsolidated affiliates; gain (loss) on marketable securities; interest expense; other operating income (expense)-net; depreciation and amortization; impairment charges; restructuring charges and other items, except only for the Americas division.  Mr. Cooper’s individual qualitative performance objectives for 2011 consisted of: (1) increasing digital deployment; (2) preserving OIBDAN margins for the Americas division; and (3) improving year-over-year digital performance.  The 2011 Americas division OIBDAN was approximately $486 million, which was less than the OIBDAN target.  Mr. Cooper entered into a Severance Agreement and General Release with us in January 2012, prior to the time that our reportable OIBDAN was finalized for 2011.  Based on preliminary OIBDAN results and, in connection with his performance against the qualitative performance objectives described above, we and Mr. Cooper agreed that he would receive an annual bonus of $381,500 for 2011 as part of his severance.

Jonathan D. Bevan
 
Mr. Bevan’s target bonus for 2011 was set at 100% of his base salary for 2011, or £265,000 (or $424,951 using the average exchange rate of ₤1=$1.60359 for the year ended December 31, 2011), with 70% attributed to achieving OIBDAN in the International division of $359 million and 30% attributed to achieving the other qualitative performance objectives described below.  His maximum bonus for 2011 was set at £530,000 (or $849,902 using the average exchange rate of ₤1=$1.60359 for the year ended December 31, 2011).  For purposes of calculating Mr. Bevan’s bonus, OIBDAN is calculated in the manner described above for Mr. Eccleshare.  Mr. Bevan’s individual qualitative performance objectives for 2011 consisted of: (1) improving OIBDAN margins for the International division; (2) successfully deploying a new shared business tracking system throughout the International division; (3) achieving budgeted yield improvements as compared to 2010; and (4) completing his transition to the role of Chief Operating Officer—International.  The 2011 International division OIBDAN was approximately $362 million, which exceeded the OIBDAN target and, in connection with his maximum achievement of his qualitative performance objectives described above, resulted in Mr. Bevan receiving an annual incentive bonus of ₤302,829 (or $485,614 using the average exchange rate of ₤1=$1.60359 for the year ended December 31, 2011).

Long-Term Incentive Compensation
 
Administration.  Our named executive officers participate in our 2005 Stock Incentive Plan (the “Incentive Plan”), which allows for the issuance of incentive and non-statutory stock options, restricted stock and other equity awards.  The Incentive Plan is administered by our Compensation Committee.  See “Executive Compensation—Grants of Plan-Based Awards” for more detailed description of the Incentive Plan.  As of April 2, 2012, there were approximately 430 employees holding outstanding stock incentive awards under the Incentive Plan.  In general, the level of long-term incentive compensation is determined based on an evaluation of competitive factors in conjunction with total compensation provided to the executive officers and the overall goals of the compensation program described above.  Long-term incentive compensation typically has been paid in stock options and/or restricted stock or restricted stock units with time-vesting conditions and/or vesting conditions tied to predetermined performance goals.  Equity ownership is important for purposes of executive retention and alignment of interests with stockholders.
 
Stock Options.  Long-term incentive compensation may be granted to our named executive officers in the form of stock options, with exercise prices of not less than fair market value of our Class A common stock on the date of grant and with a 10-year term.  We typically define fair market value as the closing price on the date of grant.  Vesting schedules are set by the Compensation Committee in their discretion and vary on a case by case basis.  All vesting is contingent on continued employment, with rare exceptions made by the Compensation Committee.  See “Executive Compensation—Potential Post-Employment Payments” for a description of the treatment of the named executive officers’ stock option awards upon termination or change in control.  All decisions to award the named executive officers stock options are in the sole discretion of the Compensation Committee.
 
 
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Restricted Stock or Restricted Stock Unit Awards.  Long-term incentive compensation also may be granted to our named executive officers in the form of restricted stock or restricted stock unit awards.  Vesting schedules are set by the Compensation Committee in their discretion and vary on a case by case basis.  All vesting is contingent on continued employment, with rare exceptions made by the Compensation Committee.  See “Executive Compensation—Potential Post-Employment Payments” for a description of the treatment of the named executive officers’ restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards upon termination or change in control.  All decisions to award the named executive officers restricted stock or restricted stock unit awards are in the sole discretion of the Compensation Committee.
 
Analysis. Restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards were not provided to named executive officers during 2011.  Awards of stock options representing a total of 309,138 shares of our Class A common stock were made to our named executive officers in 2011.  During 2011, Mr. Eccleshare was awarded stock options to purchase 178,471 shares of our Class A common stock, 88,471 shares of which reflect the August 11, 2011 modifications to the terms of stock options originally awarded to Mr. Eccleshare in September 2009 and September 2010 as described below, and 90,000 shares of which were granted to Mr. Eccleshare in February 2011 concurrently with our annual stock option awards to other employees.  Mr. Bevan was awarded stock options to purchase 64,000 shares of our Class A common stock in February 2011 concurrently with our annual stock option awards to other employees.  The amounts of the annual stock option awards to Messrs. Eccleshare and Bevan in February 2011 were based upon: (1) general performance; (2) internal pay equity relative to other key employees; and (3) the value of equity awards granted in prior years.  Mr. Cooper received an award of stock options to purchase 66,667 shares of our Class A common stock in December 2011 pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement.
 
On August 11, 2011, the Compensation Committee amended and restated Mr. Eccleshare’s Stock Option Agreement originally dated September 17, 2009 to simplify the structure of Mr. Eccleshare’s long-term incentive compensation while retaining alignment between Mr. Eccleshare’s contributions to the performance of the business and the value of his long-term incentive compensation arrangements.  Pursuant to the terms of the amended and restated agreement: (1) Mr. Eccleshare forfeited his rights under the original agreement to receive additional stock option awards on September 10, 2011 and September 10, 2012, with the number of shares subject to those future stock option awards based on a formula provided in the original agreement; (2) we agreed to grant Mr. Eccleshare, no later than March 31, 2012, a time-vesting stock option to purchase 90,000 shares of our Class A common stock; and (3) the performance-based vesting conditions applicable to Mr. Eccleshare’s stock options originally awarded on September 10, 2009 and September 10, 2010 (referred to in the original agreement as Option B and Option C, respectively) were replaced with time-vesting conditions such that one third of the then-remaining unvested shares subject to Option B would vest on the second, third and fourth anniversaries of the original grant date of Option B (at the original $7.02 per share exercise price) and one quarter of the shares then-subject to Option C would vest on the first, second, third and fourth anniversaries of the original grant date of Option C (at the original $10.40 per share exercise price).
 
As mentioned above, the Compensation Committee typically considers internal pay equity when determining the amount of long-term incentive compensation to grant to our named executive officers.  However, the Committee does so broadly and does not have a specific policy, or seek to follow established guidelines or formulas, to maintain a particular ratio of long-term incentive compensation among the named executive officers or other executives.  For further information about the stock options awarded during 2011 and anti-dilution adjustments thereto in connection with the payment by Clear Channel Outdoor of a special dividend to its stockholders in March 2012, please refer to the “Grants of Plan-Based Awards” and the “Employment Agreements with the Named Executive Officers” sections appearing later under the “Executive Compensation” heading in this proxy statement.
 
Equity Award Grant Timing Practices
 
Regular Annual Equity Award Grant Dates.  The grant date for regular annual stock options and other equity awards, as applicable, for employees, including the named executive officers and for our independent directors, typically is in February.
 
 
 
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Employee New Hires/Promotions Grant Dates.  Grants of stock options and other equity awards, if any, to newly-hired or newly promoted employees generally are made at the regularly scheduled meeting of the Compensation Committee immediately following the hire or promotion.  However, timing may vary as provided in a particular employee’s agreement or to accommodate the Compensation Committee.
 
Initial Equity Award Grant Dates for Newly-Elected Independent Directors.  Grants of stock options and other equity awards, as applicable, to newly-elected independent directors generally are made at the regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Directors following their election.  If an independent director is appointed between regularly scheduled Board meetings, then grants of stock options and other equity awards, as applicable, generally are made at the first meeting in attendance after such appointment.
 
Timing of Equity Awards.  We do not have a formal policy on the timing of equity awards in connection with the release of material non-public information to affect the value of compensation.  In the event that material non-public information becomes known to the Compensation Committee prior to granting equity awards, the Compensation Committee will take the existence of such information under advisement and make an assessment in its business judgment regarding whether to delay the grant of the equity award in order to avoid any potential impropriety.

Executive Benefits and Perquisites
 
We provide the following personal benefits to one or more of the named executive officers: (1) certain pension benefits (or payments in lieu thereof) in the United Kingdom; (2) personal club dues; (3) company matching 401(k) contributions; (4) relocation expenses and related tax gross-up payments; (5) private medical insurance in the United Kingdom; and (6) transportation and automobile allowances in the United Kingdom.
 
Pursuant to his employment agreement, we agreed to reimburse Mr. Cooper for all reasonable expenses and related tax gross-ups in connection with his commute from Denver, Colorado to Phoenix, Arizona and certain housing expenses until no later than August 2012 (had he remained employed through that date).  In addition, we reimbursed him for legal fees that he incurred in the negotiation of his employment agreement.
 
Mr. Eccleshare participates in a private pension scheme (not sponsored by Clear Channel Outdoor) and, pursuant to his employment agreement, is entitled to have the Company contribute a portion of his salary to the private pension scheme.  The pension scheme provides pension income at retirement based upon contributions made during the employee’s years of participation.  Mr. Eccleshare is required to make contributions to this scheme in order for the Company to make contributions (or provide cash benefits to him as salary in lieu of such contributions).  He also receives a car allowance, private medical insurance and personal club dues.
 
Mr. Bevan participates in the Clear Channel Retirement Benefit Pension Scheme, which is a pension plan that we sponsor for certain employees in the United Kingdom.  The pension scheme provides pension income at retirement based on service and salary at retirement.  Participation is elective, and participants are required to contribute to the pension scheme if they participate.  The pension scheme is closed to new entrants, but approximately 19% of our United Kingdom employees participate in the pension scheme.  See the discussion of the pension scheme with respect to Mr. Bevan under “Executive Compensation—Pension Benefits” set forth below in this proxy statement.  He also is eligible for private medical insurance and a transportation and automobile allowance.
 
The Compensation Committee believes that the above benefits provide a more tangible incentive than an equivalent amount of cash compensation.  In determining the named executive officers’ total compensation, the Compensation Committee will consider these benefits.  However, as these benefits and perquisites represent a relatively insignificant portion of the named executive officers’ total compensation (or, in the case of benefits such as relocation benefits, are not intended to occur frequently for each named executive officer), it is unlikely that they will materially influence the Compensation Committee’s decision in setting such named executive officers’ total compensation.  For further discussion of these benefits and perquisites, please refer to the Summary Compensation Table included in this proxy statement, as well as the All Other Compensation table included in footnote (d) to the Summary Compensation Table.  For further information about other benefits provided to the named executive officers, please refer to “Executive Compensation—Employment Agreements with the Named Executive Officers.”

 
 
 
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Severance Arrangements
 
Pursuant to their respective employment agreements, each of our named executive officers is entitled to certain payments and benefits in certain termination situations or upon a change in control.  In addition, in connection with Mr. Cooper’s termination of service in 2012, he entered into a Severance Agreement and General Release with us in January 2012.  We believe that our severance arrangements facilitate an orderly transition in the event of changes in management.  For further discussion of severance payments and benefits, see “Executive Compensation—Potential Post-Employment Payments” set forth below in this proxy statement.

Roles and Responsibilities
 
Role of the Committee.  The Compensation Committee is primarily responsible for conducting reviews of our executive compensation policies and strategies and overseeing and evaluating our overall compensation structure and programs.  The responsibilities of the Compensation Committee are described above under “The Board of Directors—Committees of the Board.”
 
Role of Executive Officers.  For 2011, Mr. Mays, Mr. Cooper (with respect to the Americas division) and Mr. Eccleshare (with respect to the International division) each were involved in recommending the form and amount of executive compensation (other than for themselves).  They jointly provided reviews and recommendations for the Compensation Committee’s consideration and assisted the Compensation Committee to manage our executive compensation programs, policies, and governance.  Their direct, joint responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
 
·  
providing an ongoing review of the effectiveness of the compensation programs, including competitiveness and alignment with Clear Channel Outdoor’s objectives;
·  
recommending changes and new programs, if necessary, to ensure achievement of all program objectives; and
·  
recommending pay levels, payout and awards for executive officers (other than recommendations for themselves).

The Compensation Committee has the responsibility for administrating performance awards under the Annual Incentive Plan in accordance with Section 162(m) of the Code.  These duties included, among other things, setting the performance period, setting the performance goals, and certifying the achievement of the predetermined performance goals by each named executive officer.
 
Use of Compensation Consultants.  As described below under “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—CC Media Holdings, Inc.—Corporate Services Agreement,” our parent entity provides us with certain services, including human resources support.  For 2011, CC Media’s management retained Hay Group, Inc. (“Hay”) to assist with management’s review and communication of both CC Media and Clear Channel Outdoor executive compensation matters as well as to provide other services to CC Media and Clear Channel Outdoor.  In addition, our management retained Towers Watson Limited (“Towers”), to assist management with its review of international compensation matters specifically.  The services provided to management by Hay with respect to Clear Channel Outdoor included: providing support to management in its review of the Company-wide compensation structure; assisting with overall market analysis of executive compensation structures generally, and specifically consulting with management regarding potential annual incentive bonus structures and executive compensation structures and trends for the primary international locations where we operate; providing equity valuation support in connection with the August 2011 modifications to Mr. Eccleshare’s stock option awards described above; and assisting management with communication materials related to executive compensation as well as employee compensation more broadly.  Hay used existing sources of data for its market analysis.  Towers was engaged by management specifically to provide a review, using its existing sources of data, regarding executive compensation structures and trends for the primary international locations where we operate.
 
 
 
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TAX AND ACCOUNTING TREATMENT
 
Deductibility of Executive Compensation
 
Section 162(m) of the Code places a limit of $1,000,000 on the amount of compensation Clear Channel Outdoor may deduct for federal income tax purposes in any one year with respect to certain senior executives of Clear Channel Outdoor, which we referred to herein as the “Covered Employees.”  However, performance-based compensation that meets certain requirements is excluded from this $1,000,000 limitation.
 
In reviewing the effectiveness of the executive compensation program, the Compensation Committee considers the anticipated tax treatment to Clear Channel Outdoor and to the Covered Employees of various payments and benefits.  However, the deductibility of certain compensation payments depends upon the timing of a Covered Employee’s vesting or exercise of previously granted equity awards, as well as interpretations and changes in the tax laws and other factors beyond the control of the Compensation Committee.  For these and other reasons, including to maintain flexibility in compensating the named executive officers in a manner designed to promote varying corporate goals, the Compensation Committee will not necessarily, or in all circumstances, limit executive compensation to that which is deductible under Section 162(m) of the Code and has not adopted a policy requiring all compensation to be deductible.
 
The Compensation Committee may consider various alternatives to preserving the deductibility of compensation payments and benefits to the extent reasonably practicable and to the extent consistent with its other compensation objectives.  To this end, the Compensation Committee annually establishes performance criteria in an effort to ensure deductibility of annual incentive bonuses under the Annual Incentive Plan.  Base salary does not qualify as performance-based compensation under Section 162(m) of the Code.

Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation
 
Clear Channel Outdoor accounts for stock-based payments, including awards under the 2005 Stock Incentive Plan, in accordance with the requirements of ASC 718 (formerly Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123(R)).

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
 
The Summary Compensation Table below provides compensation information for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 for the principal executive officers (“PEO”) and the principal financial officer (“PFO”) serving during 2011 and each of the three next most highly compensated executive officers of Clear Channel Outdoor for services rendered in all capacities (collectively, the “named executive officers”).  As described below under “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—CC Media Holdings, Inc.—Corporate Services Agreement,” a portion of the compensation (1) for the first quarter of 2011 and for 2010 and 2009 for Mark P. Mays, (2) for 2011 and 2010 for Thomas W. Casey and (3) for March 31, 2011 through December 31, 2011 for Robert H. Walls, Jr. was allocated to us in recognition of their services provided to us.  Those allocated amounts are reflected in the Summary Compensation Table below, along with any compensation that we or our subsidiaries provided to them directly.
 

 
 
36

 
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
 
Summary Compensation Table
 
 
 
Name and
Principal Position
 
Year
 
Salary
($)
   
Bonus(a)
($)
   
Stock
 Awards(b)
($)
 
Option
 Awards(b)
($)
   
Non-Equity
Incentive
Plan
 Compensation(c)
($)
   
Change in
Pension Value
And
Nonqualified Deferred
 Compensation Earnings
($)
   
All Other
Compensation(d)
($)
   
Total
($)
Mark P. Mays – Former Chief Executive Officer (PEO)(e)
 
2011
  97,375 (f)   48,688 (f)                 2,939 (f)   149,002
   
2010
  416,907 (f)(g)             1,088,051 (f)       11,322 (f)   1,516,280
 
 
2009
  234,750 (f)(g)             97,035 (f)       10,176 (f)   341,961
                                                 
Thomas W. Casey – Executive Vice President and Chief Financial
 
2011
  292,125 (f)   222,014 (f)         276,786 (f)       25,299 (f)   816,224
Officer (PFO) and Former Office of the Chief Executive Officer (PEO)(h)
 
2010
  307,500 (f)   266,500 (f)         539,007 (f)       471,660 (f)   1,584,667
                                                 
Robert H. Walls, Jr. –Executive Vice President, General Counsel
 
2011
      148,250 (f)                     148,250
and Secretary and Former Office of the Chief Executive Officer (PEO)(i)
                                               
                                                 
C. William Eccleshare – Former Chief Executive Officer – Clear Channel
 
2011
  798,260 (g)         1,256,729 (k)   920,134         126,970     3,102,093
Outdoor – International(j)
 
2010
  771,118 (g)   199,260     104,648   582,557 (k)   1,296,837         178,041     3,132,461
                                                 
Ronald H. Cooper –Former Chief Executive Officer – Americas(l)
 
2011
  775,000     381,500       424,589             49,557     1,630,646
   
2010
  775,000     150,000       528,891     1,031,500         88,866     2,574,257
   
2009
  20,865         1,354,500   1,551,000                 2,926,365
                                                 
Jonathan D. Bevan – Chief Operating Officer – International(m)
 
2011
  442,941 (g)         546,061     485,614     286,523 (n)   127,407     1,888,546
   
2010
  389,478 (g)   98,623       348,961     523,573     234,124 (n)   109,236     1,703,995
   
2009
  353,347 (g)         186,952     38,587     220,551 (n)   94,645     894,082
 
 
__________________
(a)
The amounts reflect:
 
·  
In the case of Messrs. Mays for 2011 and Casey for 2011 and 2010, cash payments as discretionary bonus awards from CC Media;
·  
In the case of Messrs. Casey and Walls for 2011, discretionary bonus awards that each of Messrs. Casey and Walls received for their service in the Office of the Chief Executive Officer during 2011;
·  
In the case of Mr. Casey for 2010, a signing bonus that Mr. Casey received upon joining CC Media; and
·  
In the case of Messrs. Eccleshare, Cooper and Bevan, cash payments for 2011 and 2010, as applicable, as discretionary bonus awards from Clear Channel Outdoor.
 
See “Compensation Discussion and Analysis—Elements of Compensation—Annual Incentive Bonus.”
 
 
 
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(b)
The amounts shown in the Stock Awards column for Mr. Eccleshare for 2010 and Mr. Cooper for 2009 reflect the full grant date fair value of time-vesting restricted stock units awarded by Clear Channel Outdoor in 2010 and 2009, respectively, computed in accordance with the requirements of ASC Topic 718, but excluding any impact of estimated forfeiture rates as required by SEC regulations.  For time-vesting restricted stock unit awards, the grant date fair value is based on the closing price of our Class A common stock on the date of grant.
 
 
The amounts shown in the Option Awards column reflect the full grant date fair value of time-vesting stock options awarded to Messrs. Eccleshare, Cooper and Bevan by Clear Channel Outdoor in 2011, 2010 and 2009, as applicable, computed in accordance with the requirements of ASC Topic 718, but excluding any impact of estimated forfeiture rates as required by SEC regulations.
 
 
The fair value of the time-vesting stock options awarded in 2011 was estimated, based on several assumptions, on the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option valuation model.  The fair value and assumptions used for the stock option awards to Messrs. Eccleshare, Cooper and Bevan in 2011 are shown below:
 
   
Bevan
and Eccleshare
2/21/11 Grants
   
Cooper
12/10/11 Grant
 
Fair value per share of options granted
  $ 8.53     $ 6.37  
Fair value assumptions:
               
Expected volatility
    57.35 %     57.35 %
Expected life, in years
     6.3                                                   6.3  
Risk-free interest rate
    2.75 %     1.31 %
Dividend yield
    0.00 %     0.00 %

 
In addition, for Mr. Eccleshare, the amount shown in the Option Awards column for 2011 includes the incremental fair value of modifications made on August 11, 2011 to certain of his outstanding stock option awards originally granted on September 10, 2009 and September 10, 2010.   For a description of Mr. Eccleshare’s award modifications, see footnote (k) below and the Grants of Plan-Based Awards During 2011 table below.  The incremental fair value and assumptions used for Mr. Eccleshare’s award modifications on August 11, 2011 are shown below for each modified award:
 
   
Original Grant Date
 
   
Eccleshare
9/10/09
Grant
   
Eccleshare
9/10/10
 Grant
 
Fair value per share of options granted
  $ 5.95     $ 5.06  
Fair value assumptions:
               
Expected volatility
    57.35 %     57.35 %
Expected life, in years
    5.1       5.4  
Risk-free interest rate
    1.06 %     1.14 %
Dividend yield
    0.00 %     0.00 %

 
 
For further discussion of the assumptions made in valuation, see also Note 10-Shareholders’ Equity beginning on page C-62 of Appendix C.
 
(c)
In the case of Messrs. Mays and Casey, the amounts reflect cash payments by CC Media for the applicable fiscal year as annual incentive bonus awards under the CC Media 2008 Annual Incentive Plan pursuant to pre-established performance goals.  In the case of Messrs. Eccleshare, Cooper and Bevan, the amounts reflect cash payments by Clear Channel Outdoor for the applicable fiscal year as annual incentive bonus awards under Clear Channel Outdoor’s 2006 Annual Incentive Plan pursuant to pre-established performance goals.  For discussion of the 2011 pre-established performance goals and payments, see “Compensation Discussion and Analysis—Elements of Compensation—Annual Incentive Bonus.”
 
(d)
As described below, for 2011 the All Other Compensation column reflects:
 
·  
amounts we contributed under company-sponsored or private retirement programs for the benefit of Messrs. Eccleshare and Bevan in the United Kingdom (or a cash payment in lieu thereof) or under the 401(k) plan as a matching contribution for the benefit of Mr. Cooper in the United States;
·  
club membership dues for Mr. Eccleshare paid by us;
·  
automobile allowances for the benefit of Messrs. Eccleshare and Bevan in the United Kingdom;
·  
a transportation allowance for the benefit of Mr. Bevan in the United Kingdom;
·  
relocation expenses for Mr. Cooper;
·  
tax gross-ups on relocation expenses for Mr. Cooper; and
·  
private medical insurance for the benefit of Messrs. Eccleshare and Bevan in the United Kingdom.
 
 
 
 
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For 2011, the All Other Compensation column also reflects the allocation to us pursuant to the Corporate Services Agreement of the following items paid by CC Media:
 
·  
amounts CC Media contributed under the 401(k) plan as a matching contribution for the benefit of Messrs. Mays and Casey;
·  
club membership dues for Mr. Mays paid by CC Media;
·  
personal accounting and tax services for Mr. Mays;
·  
relocation expenses for Mr. Casey; and
·  
tax gross-ups on relocation expenses for Mr. Casey.

 
Messrs. Eccleshare and Bevan are citizens of the United Kingdom.  The amounts reported for Messrs. Eccleshare and Bevan have been converted from British pounds to U.S. dollars using the average exchange rate of ₤1=$1.60359 for the year ended December 31, 2011.
 
   
   Mays
   
  Casey
   
   Walls
   
   Eccleshare
   
   Cooper
   
    Bevan
 
Plan contributions (or cash payments in lieu thereof)
  $ 596     $ 2,386           $ 97,534     $ 6,125     $ 89,665  
Club dues
    576                   2,659              
Automobile allowance
                      23,581             35,412  
Transportation allowance
                                  1,732  
Accounting/tax services
    1,767                                
Relocation expenses
          14,561                   26,736        
Relocation tax gross-up
          8,352                   16,696        
Legal review fees
                                   
Private medical insurance
                      3,196             598  
Total
  $ 2,939     $ 25,299           $ 126,970     $ 49,557     $ 127,407  

 
For a description of the relocation expenses and related tax gross-ups, see “—Employment Agreements with the Named Executive Officers” below.
 
(e)
The summary compensation information presented above for Mr. Mays reflects his service as our Chief Executive Officer during 2010 and 2009 and from January 1, 2011 until March 31, 2011, as well as his service as a director of Clear Media Limited, as described in footnote (g) below.  Mr. Mays continues to serve as a member of our Board of Directors until the annual meeting but does not receive separate compensation for such service.
 
(f)
As described below under “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—CC Media Holdings, Inc.—Corporate Services Agreement,” a subsidiary of CC Media provides, among other things, certain executive officer services to us.  Pursuant to the Corporate Services Agreement, based on our OBIDAN as a percentage of Clear Channel’s total OIBDAN, we were allocated 38.95% of certain amounts for 2011 and 41% of certain amounts for 2010 and 2009.

 
The Summary Compensation Table above reflects these allocated amounts, as described below:

·  
The Salary, Bonus, Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation and All Other Compensation columns presented above reflect the portion of the Salary, Bonus, Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation and All Other Compensation amounts of Messrs. Mays and Casey allocated to us pursuant to the Corporate Services Agreement, as well as, in the case of the Salary column for Mr. Mays, 100% of the amounts described below in footnote (g) with respect to his service as a director of Clear Media Limited.  For 2011, amounts were only allocated to us with respect to Mr. Mays through March 31, 2011 because he ceased serving as our Chief Executive Officer on March 31, 2011.  The Bonus column presented above for Mr. Casey for 2011 includes $73,764 of his discretionary bonus allocated to us for his service as Chief Financial Officer during 2011 and $148,250 of his discretionary bonus allocated to us for his service as a member of our Office of the Chief Executive Officer from March 31, 2011 through December 31, 2011.
·  
The Bonus column presented above for Mr. Walls reflects $148,250 of his discretionary bonus allocated to us for his service as a member of our Office of the Chief Executive Officer from March 31, 2011 through December 31, 2011.  Amounts were only allocated to us with respect to Mr. Walls for 2011 because he did not serve in our Office of the Chief Executive Officer prior to March 31, 2011.

The tables below reflect 100% of the applicable Salary (in the case of Mr. Mays, excluding the amounts described in footnote (g) below for 2010 and 2009), Bonus and Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation amounts and 100% of those allocated elements of the All Other Compensation amounts, the allocated percentage of which is included in the Summary Compensation Table above.  These 100% amounts for the allocated items are disclosed by CC Media in the Summary Compensation Table in CC Media’s proxy statement.
 
 
 
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100% of Allocated Salary Amounts
 
   
2011
   
2010
   
2009
 
Mark P. Mays
  $ 250,000     $ 1,000,000     $ 532,917  
Thomas W. Casey
    750,000       750,000        
 
 
   
100% of Allocated Bonus and
Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation
 
   
2011
   
2010
   
2009
 
Mark P. Mays
  $ 125,000     $ 2,653,784     $ 236,670  
Thomas W. Casey
    1,150,000       1,964,650        
Robert H. Walls, Jr.
    250,000              
 
 
   
100% of Allocated All Other Compensation Amounts
 
   
2011
   
2010
   
2009
 
Mark P. Mays
  $ 7,545     $ 27,615     $ 24,820  
Thomas W. Casey
    64,953       1,150,391        
 
 
(g)
The amounts in the Salary column for Messrs. Mays, Eccleshare and Bevan include their base salary for their service as an officer of ours, as well as amounts paid for their service as a director or an alternate director of our majority-owned subsidiary, Clear Media Limited.  The amounts paid for the periods during which they each served as a director of Clear Media Limited are set forth in the table below.  Clear Media Limited is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.  The amounts reflected in the table have been converted from Hong Kong dollars to U.S. dollars using the average exchange rate of HK$1=$0.1285, HK$1=$0.1287 and HK$1=$0.1290 for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
 
   
2011
   
2010
   
2009
 
Mark P. Mays
        $ 6,907     $ 16,254  
C. William Eccleshare
  $ 17,990       18,018        
Jonathan D. Bevan
    17,990       18,018       16,254  
 
(h)
Mr. Casey became our Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer on January 4, 2010.  The summary compensation information presented above for Mr. Casey reflects his service in that capacity since January 4, 2010.  Mr. Casey also began serving as a member of our Office of the Chief Executive Officer on March 31, 2011 when Mr. Mays ceased serving as our Chief Executive Officer.  The information presented in the Bonus column above for 2011 also includes $148,250 of his discretionary bonus allocated to us for his service as a member of our Office of the Chief Executive Officer from March 31, 2011 through December 31, 2011, as described in footnote (f) above.
 
(i)
Mr. Walls began serving as a member of our Office of the Chief Executive Officer on March 31, 2011 when Mr. Mays ceased serving as our Chief Executive Officer.  The information presented in the Bonus column above for 2011 reflects $148,250 of his discretionary bonus allocated to us for his service as a member of our Office of the Chief Executive Officer from March 31, 2011 through December 31, 2011, as described in footnote (f) above.
 
(j)
Mr. Eccleshare became our Chief Executive Officer—International on September 1, 2009 but was not a named executive officer in 2009.  The summary compensation information presented above for Mr. Eccleshare reflects his service in that capacity during 2011 and 2010, as well as his service as a director of Clear Media Limited, as described in footnote (g) above.  On January 24, 2012, Mr. Eccleshare was promoted to Chief Executive Officer of Clear Channel Outdoor, overseeing both our Americas and International divisions.  Mr. Eccleshare is a citizen of the United Kingdom, and the compensation amounts reported for him in the Summary Compensation Table have been converted from British pounds to U.S. dollars using the average exchange rate of ₤1=$1.60359 and ₤1=$1.54775 for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
 
(k)
The amounts in the table reflect the full grant date fair market value of time-vesting stock options awarded by Clear Channel Outdoor, as described in footnote (b) above.
 
 
On September 10, 2010, Mr. Eccleshare also received stock options to purchase 42,389 shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock that contained performance-based vesting conditions.  Assuming that all of the performance-based vesting conditions would be achieved, the grant date fair value of the performance-based stock options would have been $246,916.  However, on the grant date, the actual fair value of these options was $0 based on the probable outcome of the performance-based vesting conditions and, accordingly, no amount is reflected for these performance-based options in the Option Awards column for 2010.
 
 
On August 11, 2011, the Compensation Committee amended and restated certain of Mr. Eccleshare’s outstanding stock options.  As part of the amendment and restatement, the performance-based vesting conditions applicable to Mr. Eccleshare’s outstanding stock options originally awarded on September 10, 2009 and September 10, 2010 were replaced with time-vesting conditions.  Accordingly, as described in footnote (b) above, the amount in the Option Awards column for 2011 also includes the incremental fair value of the August 11, 2011 modifications made to his September 10, 2009 and September 10, 2010 stock option awards.  
 
 
 
 
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(l)
Mr. Cooper became our Chief Executive Officer—Americas on December 10, 2009 and was a named executive officer in 2009.  The summary compensation information presented above for Mr. Cooper reflects his service in that capacity since December 10, 2009.  Mr. Cooper’s service with us terminated on February 7, 2012.
 
(m)
Mr. Bevan has served as our Chief Operating Officer—International since October 2009.  He served as our Chief Financial Officer—International and Director of Corporate Development for the remainder of 2009.  The summary compensation information presented above for Mr. Bevan reflects his service in those capacities for those periods, as well as his service as a director or alternate director of Clear Media Limited, as described in footnote (g) above.  On February 1, 2012, Mr. Bevan was promoted to Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer—International of Clear Channel Outdoor.  Mr. Bevan is a citizen of the United Kingdom, and the compensation amounts reported for him in the Summary Compensation Table have been converted from British pounds to U.S. dollars using the average exchange rate of ₤1=$1.60359, ₤1=$1.54775 and ₤1=$1.5648 for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
 
(n)
Amounts reflect the increase in Mr. Bevan’s actuarial present value of accumulated pension benefits during 2011, 2010 and 2009 under the Clear Channel Retirement Benefit Scheme in the United Kingdom.


EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS WITH THE NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
   
    Certain elements of the compensation of the named executive officers are determined based on their respective employment agreements.  The descriptions of the employment agreements set forth herein do not purport to be complete and are qualified in their entirety by the employment agreements.  Each of the employment agreements discussed below provides for severance and change in control payments as more fully described under the heading “—Potential Post-Employment Payments” in this proxy statement, which descriptions are incorporated herein by reference.  For further discussion of the amounts of salary and bonus and other forms of compensation, see “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” above.
 
    As described below under “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—CC Media Holdings, Inc.—Corporate Services Agreement,” Clear Channel, our indirect parent entity, makes available to us, and we are obligated to use, the services of certain executive officers of Clear Channel, and a portion of their compensation is allocated to us in recognition of their services provided to us.  Accordingly, a portion of the compensation (1) for the first quarter of 2011 and for 2010 and 2009 for Mark P. Mays, (2) for 2011 and 2010 for Thomas W. Casey and (3) for March 31, 2011 through December 31, 2011 for Robert H. Walls, Jr. was allocated to us in recognition of their services provided to us under the Corporate Services Agreement.  Each of Messrs. Mays, Casey and Walls has an employment agreement with CC Media and/or Clear Channel.  The provisions of those agreements are described below to the extent that amounts payable thereunder would be or have been allocated to us under the Corporate Services Agreement.

Mark P. Mays
 
Upon the consummation of the July 2008 merger (the “Merger”) pursuant to which Clear Channel became an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of CC Media, Mark P. Mays was employed by CC Media and Clear Channel as the Chief Executive Officer of each entity, and entered into an employment agreement with a term ending July 31, 2013.  Mr. Mays’ employment agreement was amended in January 2009 and amended and restated in June 2010 in connection with his announcement of his intention to retire as their President and Chief Executive Officer.  The amended and restated agreement provides for a term through July 31, 2013, which will be extended thereafter only by written agreement of the parties.  Upon the consummation of the Merger, the parties agreed that Mr. Mays would receive an annual base salary of not less than $895,000.  Pursuant to the January 2009 amendment to his employment agreement, Mr. Mays voluntarily reduced his base salary to $500,000 for 2009, which increased to not less than $1,000,000 per year thereafter.  Mr. Mays’ current annual base salary from CC Media is $1,000,000.  Pursuant to his June 2010 amended and restated employment agreement, Mr. Mays also will receive benefits and perquisites consistent with his previous arrangement with Clear Channel (including “gross-up” payments for excise taxes that may be payable by Mr. Mays in connection with any payments made in connection with the Merger and for additional taxes that may be payable by Mr. Mays under Section 409A of the Code).
 
 
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Pursuant to his amended and restated employment agreement, for 2010, Mr. Mays was entitled to receive an annual bonus from CC Media of between $0 and $4,000,000 based on the percentage of target OIBDAN achieved, as set forth in the table below.
 
Achieved OIBDAN/Target OIBDAN
(expressed as a percentage)
 
Performance
Bonus
90% or less
 
$0
100%
 
$2,000,000
120% or more
 
$4,000,000

For purposes of calculating Mr. Mays’ 2010 bonus under his amended and restated employment agreement, OIBDAN was Clear Channel’s reportable OIBDAN before restructuring charges, defined as consolidated net income (loss) adjusted to exclude the following items: non-cash compensation expense; income tax benefit (expense); other income (expense)-net; equity in earnings (loss) of nonconsolidated affiliates; gain (loss) on marketable securities; interest expense; other operating income (expense)-net; depreciation and amortization; impairment charges; restructuring charges and other items.  For purposes of that calculation only, Target OIBDAN to achieve 100% bonus for 2010 was $1.57 billion and Target OIBDAN to achieve a greater than 100% bonus for 2010 was $1.62 billion, with the bonus amount set at $2 million if Achieved OIBDAN was between $1.57 and $1.62 billion.  For any year after 2010, Mr. Mays’ performance bonus from CC Media will be determined solely at the discretion of CC Media’s Board, but shall not be less than $500,000 for any year (prorated if employment is terminated for any reason).  For 2011, Mr. Mays received an annual bonus of $500,000 from CC Media.

Thomas W. Casey
 
On December 15, 2009, Thomas W. Casey entered into an employment agreement with Clear Channel.  Pursuant to his agreement, Mr. Casey will serve as Chief Financial Officer until his agreement is terminated by either party as permitted in the agreement.
 
Under his agreement, Mr. Casey receives compensation from Clear Channel consisting of a base salary, incentive awards and other benefits and perquisites.  Mr. Casey’s annual base salary was set at $750,000, with eligibility for additional annual raises commensurate with company policy.  Mr. Casey’s current annual base salary from Clear Channel is $800,000.  During 2010, Mr. Casey received a $500,000 signing bonus from Clear Channel, half of which he would have been required to reimburse if he terminated his employment within the first twelve months or Clear Channel terminated his employment for cause during that period.  No later than March 15 of each calendar year, Mr. Casey is eligible to receive a performance bonus.  For 2010 and each year thereafter (subject to annual increases as may be approved by Clear Channel), Mr. Casey’s target bonus will be $1,000,000, with bonus criteria being 70% company financial performance-based and 30% MBO-based.  For 2011, Mr. Casey received an annual bonus from Clear Channel of $1,150,000, including a discretionary bonus of $189,390 with respect to his service as Chief Financial Officer and an additional discretionary bonus of $250,000 in recognition of his service in the Office of the Chief Executive Officer during 2011.  He is entitled to participate in all employee welfare benefit plans in which other similarly situated employees may participate.
 
Mr. Casey also was entitled to receive certain relocation benefits from Clear Channel in connection with his relocation to San Antonio, Texas for a period of 24 months after entering into his employment agreement.  During 2010, Mr. Casey’s relocation benefits from Clear Channel included a $15,000 relocation allowance, $21,678 to reimburse him for duplicate housing expenses, $82,901 for travel, temporary living and miscellaneous relocation expenses and $19,372 for closing costs related to the purchase of his new home.  Clear Channel also engaged a third party relocation company, which purchased Mr. Casey’s home in Washington, with the purchase price based on appraisals obtained by the relocation company.  In addition, Clear Channel paid Mr. Casey $270,000 to compensate him for losses to him on the sale of his Washington home (after the first 10% of any such losses) and $163,812 to compensate him for taxes resulting from these relocation benefits.  Clear Channel bore the costs associated with the relocation company’s purchase and subsequent resale of Mr. Casey’s Washington home, as well as the costs of maintaining the home during the resale process and the loss to the relocation company on the resale of Mr. Casey’s Washington home, paying the relocation company an aggregate amount of $577,628 for these items.  During 2011, Mr. Casey completed his relocation and received relocation benefits from Clear Channel of $37,385 with respect to the transfer tax on the deed to his home, plus $21,443 to compensate him for the taxes on those relocation benefits.
 
 
 
 
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Robert H. Walls, Jr.
 
Effective January 1, 2010, Robert H. Walls, Jr. entered into an employment agreement with Clear Channel Management Services, Inc. (“CCMS”), an indirect subsidiary of CC Media.  Pursuant to his agreement, Mr. Walls will serve as Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary until his agreement is terminated by either party as permitted in the agreement.
 
Under his agreement, Mr. Walls receives compensation from CCMS consisting of a base salary, incentive awards and other benefits and perquisites.  Mr. Walls’ annual base salary was set at $550,000, with eligibility for additional annual raises commensurate with company policy.  Mr. Walls’ current annual base salary from CCMS is $750,000.  During 2010, Mr. Walls received a $500,000 signing bonus from CCMS, a prorated portion of which he would have been required to reimburse if he terminated his employment without good reason within the first twelve months or CCMS terminated his employment for cause during that period.  No later than March 15 of each calendar year, Mr. Walls is eligible to receive a performance bonus.  For 2010, Mr. Walls’ target bonus was $1,000,000, with the criteria being 50% EBITDA-based and 50% MBO-based.  For purposes of his agreement, (1) EBITDA-based means performance criteria selected by the Board with respect to the annual bonus and with target performance determined on the same basis as determined for other similarly situated employees of CCMS and its affiliates and (2) MBO-based means the subjective performance criteria agreed to on an annual basis between the Chief Executive Officer and Mr. Walls at about the same time as established for other similarly situated employees.  For 2011, Mr. Walls’ target bonus was required to be no less than 100% of his base salary for 2011, with the criteria being 50% EBITDA-based and 50% MBO-based.  For 2011, Mr. Walls received an annual bonus from CCMS of $750,000, including a discretionary bonus of $23,694 with respect to his service as General Counsel and Secretary and an additional discretionary bonus of $250,000 in recognition of his service in the Office of the Chief Executive Officer during 2011.  For 2012 and thereafter, Mr. Walls’ target bonus will be no less than his base salary for the year to which the bonus relates and the criteria will be set by management in consultation with Mr. Walls.  He is entitled to participate in all employee benefit plans and perquisites in which other similarly situated employees may participate.
 
Mr. Walls also received certain other benefits from CCMS, including reimbursement of legal expenses in connection with the negotiation of his employment agreement and certain relocation benefits in connection with his relocation to San Antonio, Texas, such as reimbursement of living expenses and commuting expenses until September 1, 2010, reimbursement of taxes associated with the relocation benefits as well as other relocation benefits in accordance with company policy.

C. William Eccleshare

August 31, 2009 Contract of Employment.  On August 31, 2009, Clear Channel Outdoor Ltd., a subsidiary of Clear Channel Outdoor, entered into an employment agreement with C. William Eccleshare, pursuant to which he served as Chief Executive Officer of our International division.  The agreement had no specified term, but generally could be terminated by Clear Channel Outdoor Ltd. without cause upon 12 months prior written notice or by Mr. Eccleshare without cause upon six months prior written notice.
 
The agreement set Mr. Eccleshare’s initial base salary at £402,685, subject to additional annual raises at the sole discretion of Clear Channel Outdoor Ltd.  In connection with his promotion described below, Mr. Eccleshare’s annual base salary was increased and currently is £671,141 (or $1,076,235 using the average exchange rate of £1=$1.60359 for the year ended December 31, 2011).  Mr. Eccleshare also received a car allowance, was eligible to receive a performance bonus as decided at the sole discretion of the Chief Executive Officer of Clear Channel Outdoor, and was entitled to certain other employee benefits.  For 2011, Mr. Eccleshare received an annual bonus of £573,796 (or $920,134 using the average exchange rate of £1=$1.60359 for the year ended December 31, 2011).  See “Compensation Discussion and Analysis—Elements of Compensation—Annual Incentive Bonus.”
 
In addition, pursuant to his employment agreement, Mr. Eccleshare was entitled to have Clear Channel Outdoor Ltd. contribute a portion of his annual base salary to a personal pension plan (not sponsored by Clear Channel Outdoor Ltd.) registered under Chapter 2, Part 4 of the Finance Act of 2004 in the United Kingdom.  Mr. Eccleshare’s employment agreement also contained non-compete and non-solicitation provisions, each with a nine-month term, and a confidentiality provision with a perpetual term.
 
 
    
 
 
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   New Employment Agreement.  On January 24, 2012, Mr. Eccleshare was promoted to serve as Chief Executive Officer of Clear Channel Outdoor, overseeing both our Americas and International divisions.  In connection with his promotion, we have been negotiating a new employment agreement (the “New Employment Agreement”) with Mr. Eccleshare to replace his existing employment agreement.  Although the New Employment Agreement is still being finalized, the anticipated material terms are described below.
 
    Mr. Eccleshare’s New Employment Agreement will have an initial term ending on December 31, 2014, and thereafter will provide for automatic 12-month extensions, beginning on January 1, 2015, unless either we or Mr. Eccleshare gives prior notice electing not to extend the New Employment Agreement.  As our Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Eccleshare will relocate from our offices in London to our offices in New York City upon finalizing the necessary immigration applications.  In his new position, Mr. Eccleshare will receive an annual base salary of $1,000,000 (to be paid in British Pounds Sterling using an exchange rate of $1.49:£1 until he relocates to the United States).  His salary will be reviewed for increase from time to time by the Board.  During the term of the New Employment Agreement, Mr. Eccleshare will be eligible to receive an annual performance bonus with a target of not less than $1,000,000 and the opportunity to earn up to 200% of the target amount based on the achievement of performance goals specified in his New Employment Agreement for 2012 and performance goals to be set by the Compensation Committee for years after 2012.  In addition to the annual bonus, Mr. Eccleshare will be eligible to receive an additional bonus of up to $300,000 (the “Additional Bonus Opportunity”), based on the achievement of one or more annual performance goals determined by our Board or a subcommittee thereof.  Any bonus earned under the Additional Bonus Opportunity will be paid in equal installments on or about the first, second and third anniversary of the beginning of the performance period and will be contingent upon his continued employment through the applicable payment date.
 
    We will continue to contribute to Mr. Eccleshare’s personal pension plan, as provided in his previous employment agreement.  We will reimburse Mr. Eccleshare for the reasonable costs and expenses (not to exceed $25,000 annually, fully grossed-up for applicable taxes) associated with filing his personal income tax returns.  We also will make a car service available for Mr. Eccleshare’s business use and will pay all fees associated with the immigration applications for Mr. Eccleshare and his spouse.  Prior to his relocation, Mr. Eccleshare will continue to receive the health, medical, welfare and life insurance benefits currently provided to him.  After his relocation, Mr. Eccleshare will be eligible to receive health, medical, welfare and life insurance benefits on a basis no less favorable than provided to similarly situated employees.  He also will be entitled to vacation, pursuant to company policy.
 
    We will reimburse Mr. Eccleshare for reasonable expenses associated with his relocation to New York City pursuant to our relocation policy.  In addition, we will: (1) pay Mr. Eccleshare an additional $200,000 (less applicable taxes) for relocation-related expenses not otherwise covered by our relocation policy; (2) provide a reasonable number of flights during the first 12 months after Mr. Eccleshare’s relocation for his family to visit New York; and (3) for the duration of Mr. Eccleshare’s assignment in New York City, reimburse Mr. Eccleshare up to $20,000 per month, fully grossed-up for applicable taxes, for housing in New York City.  If Mr. Eccleshare’s employment is terminated without cause or if Mr. Eccleshare terminates his employment for good reason, we will reimburse Mr. Eccleshare for reasonable relocation expenses from New York to London.  However, no relocation reimbursement will be provided if: (1) Mr. Eccleshare’s employment is terminated for cause; (2) Mr. Eccleshare resigns without good reason; or (3) Mr. Eccleshare violates any of the restrictive covenants described below.  See “—Potential Post-Employment Payments.”
 
    During Mr. Eccleshare’s employment and for 18 months thereafter, Mr. Eccleshare will be subject to non-competition, non-interference and non-solicitation covenants substantially consistent with our other senior executives.  Mr. Eccleshare also will be subject to customary confidentiality, work product, non-disparagement and trade secret provisions.
 
    In addition to the outstanding and future equity awards provided for in Mr. Eccleshare’s Amended and Restated Stock Option Agreement dated August 11, 2011, in connection with his promotion, we agreed that Mr. Eccleshare would be awarded (contingent upon Compensation Committee approval) restricted stock units having a value of $4,000,000 based on the closing price of our Class A common stock.  The restricted stock units will vest as follows:  25% of the units will vest if we achieve agreed upon performance targets, and the remaining units will vest 50% on each of the third and fourth anniversaries of Mr. Eccleshare’s appointment as our Chief Executive Officer.  The Compensation Committee approved the terms of the restricted stock unit award on March 26, 2012 but the award will not be effective until the New Employment Agreement is finalized and signed by all parties.
 

 
 
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During the term of the New Employment Agreement, Mr. Eccleshare may continue to perform non-executive services with Hays plc.  Upon his service with Hays plc ceasing, Mr. Eccleshare will be permitted to perform another non-executive role at any time with a business that does not compete with us or our affiliates, subject to our prior written consent, which shall not be unreasonably withheld.

Ronald H. Cooper

Effective as of December 10, 2009, Clear Channel Outdoor entered into an employment agreement with Ronald H. Cooper, pursuant to which Mr. Cooper served as Chief Executive Officer of our Americas division until February 7, 2012.  In January 2012, Mr. Cooper entered into a Severance and General Release agreement with Clear Channel Outdoor, which is described under “—Potential Post-Employment Payments.”
 
Under his employment agreement, Mr. Cooper received compensation consisting of a base salary, incentive awards and other benefits and perquisites.  The agreement set Mr. Cooper’s initial base salary at $775,000, subject to annual raises in accordance with company policy.  Mr. Cooper also was eligible to receive a performance bonus based on a target bonus of no less than $1,000,000, with the bonus criteria being 70% company financial performance-based and 30% MBO-based and no less favorable versus the bonus plan of any similarly situated executive domestic employee of Clear Channel Outdoor and its domestic affiliates.  For 2011, Mr. Cooper received a bonus of $381,500 as part of his severance payment.  See “Compensation Discussion and Analysis—Elements of Compensation—Annual Incentive Bonus.”
 
Mr. Cooper also was entitled to certain relocation benefits under his employment agreement in connection with his relocation to Phoenix, Arizona.  Clear Channel Outdoor agreed to reimburse all reasonable expenses associated with his commute from the Denver area to Phoenix and housing expenses in Phoenix during the term of his employment (until no later than August 2012, if he had remained employed through that date).  Upon his relocation, Clear Channel Outdoor also agreed to pay relocation costs associated with the move in accordance with applicable company policies.
 
Pursuant to the employment agreement: (1) on December 10, 2009, Mr. Cooper was granted 150,000 restricted shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock and stock options to purchase 300,000 shares of Clear Channel Outdoor’s Class A common stock; (2) on December 10, 2010, he received stock options to purchase 66,667 shares of the Class A common stock; and (3) on December 10, 2011, he received stock options to purchase an additional 66,667 shares of Class A common stock.  Mr. Cooper also was granted options to purchase 165,000 shares of CC Media’s Class A common stock.  See “—Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year End” below.
 
Mr. Cooper’s employment agreement also contained non-compete and non-solicitation provisions, each with an 18-month term, and a confidentiality provision with a perpetual term.  Mr. Cooper is entitled to defense and indemnification for acts committed during his employment.

Jonathan D. Bevan

On October 30, 2009, Clear Channel Outdoor Ltd. entered into a new employment agreement with Jonathan D. Bevan, pursuant to which he served as Chief Operating Officer of our International division.  Mr. Bevan was promoted to Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer—International on February 1, 2012.  The agreement has no specified term, but generally can be terminated by Clear Channel Outdoor Ltd. without cause upon 12 months prior written notice or by Mr. Bevan without cause upon six months prior written notice.
 
The agreement set Mr. Bevan’s initial base salary at £240,000 (or $384,862 using the average exchange rate of ₤1=$1.60359 for the year ended December 31, 2011), subject to additional annual raises at the sole discretion of Clear Channel Outdoor Ltd.  In connection with his February 2012 promotion, Mr. Bevan’s salary increased and currently is £320,000 (or $513,149 using the average exchange rate of ₤1=$1.60359 for the year ended December 31, 2011).  Mr. Bevan also receives a car allowance, is eligible to receive a performance bonus as decided at the sole discretion of the Chief Executive Officer of Clear Channel Outdoor Ltd., and is entitled to certain other employee benefits.  For 2011, Mr. Bevan received an annual bonus of £302,829 (or $485,614 using the average exchange rate of ₤1=$1.60359 for the year ended December 31, 2011).  See “Compensation Discussion and Analysis—Elements of Compensation—Annual Incentive Bonus.”
 

 
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    Mr. Bevan’s employment agreement also contains non-compete and non-solicitation provisions, each with a nine-month term, and a confidentiality provision with a perpetual term.


GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS
 
2005 Stock Incentive Plan
 
    Clear Channel Outdoor grants equity incentive awards to named executive officers and other eligible participants under the 2005 Stock Incentive Plan.  The 2005 Stock Incentive Plan is intended to facilitate the ability of Clear Channel Outdoor to attract, motivate and retain employees, directors and other personnel through the use of equity-based and other incentive compensation opportunities.
 
    The 2005 Stock Incentive Plan allows for the issuance of restricted stock, incentive and non-statutory stock options, stock appreciation rights, director shares, deferred stock rights and other types of stock-based and/or performance-based awards to any present or future director, officer, employee, consultant or advisor of or to Clear Channel Outdoor or its subsidiaries.
 
    The 2005 Stock Incentive Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee, except that the entire Board has sole authority for granting and administering awards to non-employee directors.  The Compensation Committee determines which eligible persons receive an award and the types of awards to be granted as well as the amounts, terms and conditions of each award, including, if relevant, the exercise price, the form of payment of the exercise price, the number of shares, cash or other consideration subject to the award and the vesting schedule.  These terms and conditions will be set forth in the award agreement furnished to each participant at the time an award is granted to him or her under the 2005 Stock Incentive Plan.  The Compensation Committee also makes other determinations and interpretations necessary to carry out the purposes of the 2005 Stock Incentive Plan.  For a description of the treatment of awards upon a participant’s termination of employment or change in control, see “—Potential Post-Employment Payments.”
 
2006 Annual Incentive Plan
 
    As discussed above, named executive officers also are eligible to receive awards under the 2006 Annual Incentive Plan.  See “Compensation Discussion and Analysis—Elements of Compensation—Annual Incentive Bonus” for a more detailed description of the 2006 Annual Incentive Plan and the grant of awards to the named executive officers thereunder.
 
    The following table sets forth certain information concerning plan-based awards granted to the named executive officers during the year ended December 31, 2011.  As described below under “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—CC Media Holdings, Inc.—Corporate Services Agreement,” our parent entities provide us with, among other things, certain executive officer services.  A portion (38.95%) of the annual incentive awards provided by our parent entities to Messrs. Mays and Casey with respect to 2011 was allocated to us in recognition of their services provided to us (in the case of Mr. Mays, through his March 31, 2011 retirement as our Chief Executive Officer).  Those allocated amounts are reflected in the Grants of Plan-Based Awards During 2011 table below and 100% of the annual incentive awards are reflected by CC Media in the comparable table in CC Media’s proxy statement.  In addition, as described above in footnote (f) to the Summary Compensation Table, a pro rata portion of the discretionary bonus awards provided to Mr. Casey and Mr. Walls with respect to their service as members of our Office of the Chief Executive Officer during 2011 was allocated to us under the Corporate Services Agreement.
 
 
 
 
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Grants of Plan-Based Awards During 2011
 
         
Estimated Possible Payouts Under
Non-Equity Incentive Awards
                         
Name
 
Grant
Date
   
Threshold
($)
   
Target
($)
   
Maximum
($)
   
All Other Stock Awards: Number of Shares of Stock or Units
(#)
   
All Other Option Awards: Number of Securities Underlying
Options(a)
(#)
   
Exercise or Base Price
of Option Awards
($/sh)
   
Grant Date Fair Value
of Stock and Option
Awards(b)
($)
 
Mark P. Mays(c)
    N/A             48,688                                
                                                                 
Thomas W. Casey(c)
    N/A             389,500       779,000                          
                                                                 
Robert H. Walls, Jr.
    N/A                                            
                                                                 
C. William Eccleshare(d)
                                                               
Stock Option Award
 
02/21/11
                              90,000       15.06       767,898  
Stock Option Award
 
08/11/11
                              46,082       7.02       274,342  
Stock Option Award
 
08/11/11
                              42,389       10.40       214,489  
Annual Incentive Bonus
    N/A