Grainger CFO resigns, interim replacement named

W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) announced that Deidra C. Merriwether, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, has resigned to pursue another opportunity, effective September 4, 2026.

Merriwether notified the company's Board of Directors of her decision on July 31, 2026. The company stated her resignation is not related to any disagreement over operations, financial statements, internal controls, policies, practices, or independent auditors.

The Board appointed Laurie R. Thomson as interim CFO, effective September 5, 2026. Thomson, 53, will retain her current role as Vice President and Controller. She has served as Vice President, Controller and principal accounting officer since May 2021 and has held various finance and audit roles at the company since 2008. She is a certified public accountant and previously held positions at CVS Health Corporation and Arthur Andersen LLP.

In connection with her appointment, Thomson's base salary will increase from $455,271 to $500,000. She will also receive a one-time restricted stock unit award on October 1, 2026, with an approximate grant value of $750,000, vesting in three equal installments on October 1, 2027, October 1, 2028, and October 1, 2029.

Grainger said it will begin a search for a permanent CFO immediately.

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