JWT GROUP <JWT> GRANTS GOLDEN PARACHUTES JWT Group Inc disclosed in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission that it awarded so-called "golden parachutes" to 26 top officers. The company said it granted the special bonuses, which take effect only if an executive is fired within two years of a successful takeover, on June 8. It granted 25 of the officials a severance payment of just under three times their annual compensation if they are fired after a takeover. For chairman Don Johnston, the payment was limited to twice his annual compensation. JWT approved additional lump-sum payments of one year's compensation to an unspecified number of other highly paid company officials. The company also altered its employee retirement and stock incentive plans, to assure continued protection and benefits for employees in the event of a hostile takeover. The company did not disclose the cost of the changes made in the severance, retirement or stock plans.