ConnectOne Bancorp (CNOB) Proxy filing summary

Executive summary

• Annual Meeting scheduled for May 19, 2026, to be held virtually, with shareholders able to vote online or by proxy on key proposals including director elections, equity incentive plan, executive compensation, and auditor ratification.

• Only shareholders of record as of March 31, 2026, are entitled to vote; a majority of shares present online or by proxy constitutes a quorum.

• Proxy materials distributed electronically to reduce costs and environmental impact; paper copies available upon request.

Voting matters and shareholder proposals

• Shareholders will vote on: (1) election of 15 directors, (2) approval of the 2026 Equity Incentive Plan, (3) advisory approval of executive compensation, (4) ratification of Crowe LLP as independent auditors, and (5) other business as may arise.

• Board recommends voting FOR all proposals.

• Shareholder proposals for the 2027 proxy must be received by January 21, 2026.

Board of directors and corporate governance

• Board consists of 15 nominees with diverse backgrounds in finance, law, real estate, healthcare, and governance; 9 new members joined since 2018, including 3 from a recent merger.

• Board refreshment includes a mandatory retirement age of 75 and annual performance evaluations.

• Majority of directors are independent under NASDAQ standards; independence reviewed annually.

• Board committees include Audit, Risk, Compensation, and Nominating & Corporate Governance, all with independent members.

• Code of Ethics and corporate governance guidelines are in place and reviewed regularly.