Baxter names interim CFO as Joel Grade departs for family matters
Baxter International Inc. (NYSE: BAX) announced that Chief Financial Officer Joel Grade will leave the company to focus on family matters, with the departure taking effect immediately. Grade will continue in an advisory capacity until April 30, 2026.
The medical technology company has appointed Anita Zielinski as interim CFO while conducting a search for a permanent replacement. Zielinski joined Baxter in 2025 as senior vice president, chief accounting officer and controller, roles she will retain alongside the interim CFO position.
Zielinski previously worked at Sysco Corporation, where she served as senior vice president and CFO of U.S. Foodservice Operations, the company's largest business segment. Before Sysco, she spent more than 20 years at Ernst & Young LLP, including as an audit partner.
"Joel has supported Baxter through a period of significant transformation, and we greatly appreciate his contributions and partnership," said Andrew Hider, president and chief executive officer. "I am confident that Anita and the Finance team will provide strong leadership to ensure this continuity during the transition."
Baxter also reiterated its full-year 2026 financial outlook that was previously provided on February 12, 2026. The company stated it remains focused on stabilizing the business, strengthening its balance sheet, and driving continuous improvement.
The information was disclosed in a company press release.
