Baxter International Inc. announced that Joel Grade ceased serving as Executive Vice President and CFO effective March 16, 2026, transitioning to a non-executive advisory role through April 30, 2026, with no disagreements with management. Anita Zielinski was appointed interim CFO effective the same date while retaining her role as Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer and Controller.
Key takeaways
Joel Grade's service as EVP and CFO ceased on 2026-03-16; transitions to advisory role until 2026-04-30
Joel Grade entitled to severance under Executive Severance Plan for Group 1 Executives
Anita Zielinski, 52, appointed interim CFO effective 2026-03-16
Anita Zielinski joined Baxter in 2025 from Sysco; prior 20+ years at Ernst & Young
Interim CFO compensation: $50,000 per month plus $250,000 restricted stock units vesting on third anniversary
Company reiterating full-year 2026 financial outlook from Feb. 12, 2026