Baxter International, a medtech company, announced the retirement of José (Joe) E. Almeida, who will step down as Chair, President, and CEO, but will continue to serve in an advisory role through October 31, 2025. The Baxter Board of Directors has appointed Brent Shafer as interim CEO and Chair. Shafer, who was previously the lead independent director, will also initiate a search for a permanent CEO, with the Board considering both internal and external candidates. Shafer stated, “I look forward to supporting Baxter's important work in service of its mission and working closely with the Board to identify the permanent CEO." In addition to Shafer’s appointment, Nancy Schlichting will assume the role of Lead Independent Director.
During his nearly nine years at Baxter, Almeida led the company through significant transformation, including strategic repositioning and the recent sale of its Kidney Care business. Almeida’s leadership focused on simplifying the business and enhancing Baxter’s ability to deliver value to patients, customers, and stakeholders. As part of the leadership changes, Heather Knight has been appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, overseeing global operations. Shafer praised Knight and said, "Heather's decades of operational expertise and leadership and deep knowledge of the global commercial, operational, medical and regulatory landscape will continue to serve our patients, customers and Baxter well going forward."
