Colgate-Palmolive Company (CL) Proxy filing summary

Executive summary

• Annual Meeting scheduled for May 8, 2026, will be held virtually, allowing electronic voting and Q&A participation.

• Key priorities include accelerating growth, maximizing efficiency, driving cash flow, and advancing sustainability and inclusion.

• The 2030 strategy focuses on global brand reach, science-based innovation, omni-channel demand, data/AI, and inclusive culture.

• Board and management emphasize strong corporate governance, stakeholder value, and continuous improvement.

Voting matters and shareholder proposals

• Proposals include electing ten directors, ratifying PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as auditor, advisory vote on executive compensation, and two shareholder proposals.

• Board recommends voting FOR all company proposals and AGAINST both shareholder proposals (removal of DEI from board considerations and requirement for an independent board chairman).

• Shareholder proposals address board diversity criteria and board leadership structure; Board opposes both, citing strategic and governance reasons.

Board of directors and corporate governance

• Board consists of ten nominees, nine of whom are independent; diverse in gender, ethnicity, and experience.

• Board committees (Audit, Finance, NGCR, P&O) are fully independent and oversee key areas including risk, sustainability, and compensation.

• Lead Director role is robust, with significant authority and clear duties; annual board and committee self-evaluations are conducted.

• Board refreshment is ensured through mandatory retirement age and directorship limits.