Baird Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Baird has 10 executives leading key functions including operations, equities, finance, strategy, human resources, and wealth management.

Committed to delivering comprehensive financial solutions, Baird prioritizes client success through expert wealth management, investment banking, and asset management services across global markets.

Leadership Roles at Baird

  • Chairman & Chief Executive Officer (Strategies & Related Companies) - Jason Trennert
  • Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director - Terrance Maxwell
  • Chief Operating Officer - Cindy Gean
  • Chief Operating Officer - Equities - Jennifer Grayson
  • Chief Operating Officer & Managing Director - Scott Falk
  • Managing Director Chief Operating Officer - Ross Williams
  • President - Mary Baird
  • President, Private Wealth Management - Erik Dahlberg
  • Co-Chief Investment Officer & President, Baird Advisors, Baird Funds - Mary Ellen Stanek
  • Global Chief Human Resources Officer - Rodney Jones-Tyson
  • Jason Trennert, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer (Strategies & Related Companies) at Baird, defines the long-term vision and strategic direction for the firm. Trennert oversees the development of investment strategies and the management of related corporate entities. The Chairman & Chief Executive Officer (Strategies & Related Companies) leads the executive team in identifying market opportunities and fostering innovation across all service lines. By analyzing global economic trends, Jason Trennert guides the firm in maintaining a strong market position. This leadership role involves representing the organization to investors and the broader financial community. Through the strategic oversight of Trennert, the firm continues to provide high-value wealth management and investment banking services. The Chairman & Chief Executive Officer (Strategies & Related Companies) ensures that the corporate culture remains focused on client success and integrity, driving the growth of the firm through disciplined strategic planning and execution.
    Jason Trennert

    Terrance Maxwell - Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director

    Terrance Maxwell, the Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director at Baird, oversees the financial health and capital structure of the organization. Maxwell directs fiscal planning, budgeting, and reporting processes to ensure long-term stability and growth. The Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director manages relationships with financial institutions and stakeholders, providing transparency regarding the fiscal performance of the firm. By analyzing market trends and internal data, Terrance Maxwell informs strategic decision-making at the board level. This leadership role involves mitigating financial risks while identifying opportunities for investment in new service areas. Through the management of capital resources, the Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director supports the expansion of wealth management and private equity services. Maxwell ensures that the financial operations remain aligned with the core mission of the firm, fostering a culture of fiscal responsibility and sustainable development across all business units.
    Terrance Maxwell

    Cindy Gean - Chief Operating Officer

    Cindy Gean, the Chief Operating Officer at Baird, directs internal business processes to ensure operational excellence across the firm. Gean manages the infrastructure supporting wealth management and investment banking divisions, focusing on efficiency and scalability. By streamlining cross-departmental workflows, the Chief Operating Officer optimizes resource allocation to meet the needs of diverse financial clients. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the executive team to refine internal systems and maintain high service standards. Cindy Gean monitors performance metrics to drive continuous improvement in service delivery. Through rigorous oversight of administrative functions, the Chief Operating Officer strengthens the foundation of the organization. The operational framework established by Gean supports the long-term growth objectives of the firm, ensuring that internal capabilities align with the evolving demands of the financial services industry while maintaining the reputation of the company.

    Jennifer Grayson - Chief Operating Officer - Equities

    Jennifer Grayson, the Chief Operating Officer - Equities at Baird, manages the operational framework for the equity trading and research divisions. Grayson oversees the execution of complex trading strategies and ensures compliance with regulatory standards across North American markets. The Chief Operating Officer - Equities coordinates with research analysts and institutional sales teams to enhance market liquidity and client engagement. By implementing advanced technology solutions, the Chief Operating Officer - Equities improves the speed and accuracy of equity transactions. Jennifer Grayson drives initiatives that expand the reach of the firm within competitive financial landscapes. This role requires precise management of risk and capital allocation to support the broader investment banking goals. Through the leadership of Grayson, the equity division maintains a robust posture, delivering consistent value to institutional clients while navigating the intricacies of global market fluctuations and shifting investor requirements.

    Scott Falk - Chief Operating Officer & Managing Director

    Scott Falk, the Chief Operating Officer & Managing Director at Baird, leads the integration of business operations with strategic corporate objectives. Falk oversees the implementation of firm-wide initiatives designed to enhance productivity and client service quality. The Chief Operating Officer & Managing Director coordinates with department heads to ensure that wealth management and asset management teams operate with maximum efficiency. By architecting scalable business models, Scott Falk supports the expansion of the firm into new regional markets. This leadership role involves managing complex projects that require cross-functional cooperation and precise execution. Through the oversight of Falk, the organization maintains a competitive edge in the financial services sector. The Chief Operating Officer & Managing Director drives the adoption of innovative practices that improve client outcomes, ensuring that the operational strategy remains responsive to the changing needs of individuals and corporate clients.

    Ross Williams - Managing Director Chief Operating Officer

    Ross Williams, the Managing Director Chief Operating Officer at Baird, focuses on the optimization of internal logistics and service delivery systems. Williams directs the operational support teams that facilitate private equity and investment banking transactions. The Managing Director Chief Operating Officer ensures that all business processes adhere to the highest standards of quality and regulatory compliance. By refining the operational workflow, Ross Williams enhances the ability of the firm to serve institutional clients effectively. This leadership role involves managing the intersection of technology and human capital to drive performance improvements. Through the strategic guidance of Williams, the organization achieves greater agility in responding to market demands. The Managing Director Chief Operating Officer monitors the effectiveness of internal systems, implementing changes that support the overall growth strategy and ensure the continued success of the firm in a highly competitive financial environment.

    Mary Baird - President

    Mary Baird, the President at Baird, oversees the daily operations and strategic execution of the firm. Baird directs the coordination between various business units, including wealth management, investment banking, and asset management. The President ensures that the organizational structure supports the delivery of high-quality services to individuals and corporate clients. By fostering collaboration across departments, Mary Baird drives the achievement of corporate objectives and maintains the focus on client-centric solutions. This leadership role involves managing the overall performance of the firm and ensuring alignment with the long-term mission. Through the strategic guidance of Baird, the organization navigates complex market conditions and maintains a strong competitive position. The President monitors the effectiveness of business strategies, implementing adjustments that promote sustainable growth and operational excellence, ensuring that the firm continues to provide exceptional value to all stakeholders in the financial services sector.

    Erik Dahlberg - President, Private Wealth Management

    Erik Dahlberg, the President, Private Wealth Management at Baird, leads the division dedicated to providing personalized financial planning and investment services to individual clients. Dahlberg directs the strategy for wealth management, focusing on asset allocation, retirement planning, and estate services. The President, Private Wealth Management oversees the performance of financial advisors and ensures that client portfolios align with individual risk profiles and long-term goals. By implementing innovative wealth management tools, Erik Dahlberg enhances the client experience and improves investment outcomes. This leadership role involves expanding the reach of the firm within the private wealth sector through targeted growth initiatives. Through the strategic oversight of Dahlberg, the division maintains a reputation for excellence and trust. The President, Private Wealth Management ensures that the wealth management team remains responsive to the unique needs of clients, driving the growth of the firm through superior service and expert financial guidance.

    Mary Ellen Stanek - Co-Chief Investment Officer & President, Baird Advisors, Baird Funds

    Mary Ellen Stanek, the Co-Chief Investment Officer & President, Baird Advisors, Baird Funds at Baird, directs the investment strategy and management of the firm's advisory and fund products. Stanek oversees the portfolio management teams, ensuring that investment decisions align with the objectives of institutional and individual clients. The Co-Chief Investment Officer & President, Baird Advisors, Baird Funds manages the performance of fixed income and equity funds, focusing on risk-adjusted returns. By analyzing market data and economic indicators, Mary Ellen Stanek guides the development of investment products that meet the evolving needs of the market. This leadership role involves maintaining rigorous investment standards and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Through the strategic guidance of Stanek, the firm achieves consistent performance across its fund offerings. The Co-Chief Investment Officer & President, Baird Advisors, Baird Funds drives the growth of the asset management division by delivering expert investment solutions and maintaining a strong track record of success.
    Mary Ellen Stanek

    Rodney Jones-Tyson - Global Chief Human Resources Officer

    Rodney Jones-Tyson, the Global Chief Human Resources Officer at Baird, directs the talent acquisition, development, and retention strategies for the entire organization. Jones-Tyson oversees the implementation of programs that foster a high-performance culture across all global offices. The Global Chief Human Resources Officer manages the alignment of human capital with the strategic goals of the firm, ensuring that the workforce possesses the necessary expertise to deliver superior financial services. By designing comprehensive training and leadership development initiatives, Rodney Jones-Tyson supports the professional growth of employees. This leadership role involves managing organizational change and promoting diversity and inclusion within the workplace. Through the guidance of Jones-Tyson, the firm attracts and retains top-tier talent in the competitive finance industry. The Global Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the human resources strategy remains integral to the overall success and reputation of the company.
    Rodney Jones-Tyson

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Baird Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Baird?
    Baird is led by Jason Trennert (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer (Strategies & Related Companies)), along with executives such as Terrance Maxwell (Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director) and Cindy Gean (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Baird’s executive team?
    The executive team of Baird includes leaders such as Jason Trennert (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer (Strategies & Related Companies)), Terrance Maxwell (Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director), Cindy Gean (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Baird have?
    Baird has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Baird’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Baird includes roles such as Chairman & Chief Executive Officer (Strategies & Related Companies), Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Operating Officer - Equities, Chief Operating Officer & Managing Director.