Columbia Financial (CLBK) Proxy Filing summary

Executive summary

• The annual meeting will be held virtually on June 5, 2025, with shareholders able to vote online, by phone, or by mail.

• Shareholders as of April 14, 2025, are eligible to vote on director elections, auditor ratification, and executive compensation.

• The company had 104,930,900 shares outstanding, with 72.4% held by its parent mutual holding company.

• Proxy materials and the annual report are available online, and shareholders are encouraged to participate and vote.

Voting matters and shareholder proposals

• Shareholders will vote to elect three directors for three years, one for two years, and two for one year.

• Ratification of KPMG LLP as independent auditor for 2025 is on the ballot.

• An advisory (non-binding) vote on executive compensation is included.

• Shareholder proposals for the 2026 meeting must be received by December 26, 2025.

Board of directors and corporate governance

• The board consists of nine members, with all but the CEO considered independent.

• Board committees include Audit, Compensation, Nominating/Corporate Governance, Risk, Technology, and Operations/Strategic Planning, all with independent members.

• The board separates the roles of Chair (independent) and CEO for enhanced oversight.

• Directors are subject to stock ownership guidelines and annual self-assessment.

• The board regularly reviews governance policies and has a Code of Ethics and Business Conduct.