SenesTech, Inc. 8-K

What Happened

• SenesTech, Inc. (SNES) filed an 8-K on January 28, 2026 reporting that President and CEO Joel L. Fruendt notified the company on January 22, 2026 that he will retire effective the earlier of (i) June 30, 2026 or (ii) the date a successor CEO is appointed. The company and Mr. Fruendt entered into a Separation Agreement covering severance and benefits, subject to his execution of a release and waiver of claims. On January 26, 2026 the board appointed Jamie Bechtel as Interim Executive Chair.

Key Details

• CEO retirement notice dated January 22, 2026; 8-K filed January 28, 2026.
• Severance/benefits under the Separation Agreement (subject to release): continuation of base salary through December 15, 2026; health insurance premiums paid or reimbursed through December 31, 2026; and accelerated vesting of Mr. Fruendt’s stock options.
• Board appointment: Jamie Bechtel named Interim Executive Chair effective January 26, 2026, with compensation of $247,500 per year (in addition to any board/committee pay).
• The company intends to file the full Separation Agreement as an exhibit to its Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025.

Why It Matters

• Leadership change is material for investors because it affects company strategy and execution; the filing confirms a planned transition timeline and provides details on severance and equity treatment.
• The accelerated option vesting and extended salary/benefit payments could have near-term expense or equity impacts. The interim appointment provides continuity while the board seeks a permanent CEO; investors should watch for updates on a successor CEO and any operational or financial guidance tied to executive transition.