Baird Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Baird has 8 executives leading key functions including operations, finance, equities, human resources, and investment strategy.

Driven by a legacy of client-focused service, Baird provides comprehensive financial solutions across wealth management, investment banking, asset management, and private equity, impacting global markets since 1919.

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
  • Managing Director Chief Operating Officer - Ross Williams
  • President, Private Wealth Management - Erik Dahlberg
  • Co-Chief Investment Officer & President, Baird Advisors, Baird Funds - Mary Stanek
  • Global Chief Human Resources Officer - Rodney Jones-Tyson
  • Jason Trennert, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer (Strategies & Related Companies) at Baird, sets the strategic vision and overall direction for the firm's specialized strategy divisions and associated entities. Trennert's leadership guides the development and execution of innovative financial strategies, ensuring alignment with Baird's core mission of client service and long-term value creation. This executive role involves overseeing the performance and growth of key strategic initiatives, fostering a culture of innovation and client-centricity. Jason Trennert is responsible for driving the company's expansion into new markets and service areas, particularly within the investment banking and asset management sectors. The Chairman & Chief Executive Officer's ultimate objective is to enhance Baird's market leadership and deliver sustained financial success for its clients and stakeholders.
    Jason Trennert

    Terrance Maxwell - Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director

    Terrance Maxwell, the Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director at Baird, governs the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Maxwell's responsibilities encompass managing all financial operations, including accounting, budgeting, and financial reporting, ensuring robust fiscal discipline and compliance. As Managing Director, Terrance Maxwell also contributes to the firm's strategic direction, leveraging financial insights to identify growth opportunities and mitigate risks. This executive oversees capital allocation, investor relations, and the financial performance of Baird's various service lines, including wealth management and investment banking. By maintaining rigorous financial controls and driving efficient resource management, Maxwell ensures the stability and profitability of the firm. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is critical in navigating complex market dynamics and supporting Baird's long-term expansion initiatives.
    Terrance Maxwell

    Cindy Gean - Chief Operating Officer

    Cindy Gean, the Chief Operating Officer at Baird, directs the firm's extensive operational framework, ensuring seamless execution across all business units. Gean's leadership focuses on optimizing internal processes and enhancing service delivery to clients, aligning operational efficiency with strategic growth objectives. This role involves close collaboration with other senior leaders to implement best practices and drive continuous improvement throughout the organization. Gean's oversight extends to managing the technological infrastructure and support systems that underpin Baird's diverse financial services. By streamlining workflows and resource allocation, Cindy Gean strengthens the firm's capacity to serve individual, institutional, and corporate clients effectively. The Chief Operating Officer's strategic vision ensures that Baird's operational backbone supports its long-term market position and client satisfaction goals.

    Jennifer Grayson - Chief Operating Officer - Equities

    Jennifer Grayson, the Chief Operating Officer - Equities at Baird, spearheads the operational execution within the firm's equities division. Grayson's leadership ensures the efficient functioning of all equity trading, research, and client service operations, directly supporting the firm's investment banking and asset management arms. This role demands a deep understanding of market dynamics and regulatory landscapes to optimize trading strategies and client engagement. Jennifer Grayson focuses on enhancing the technological infrastructure and data management systems critical for high-volume equity transactions. By driving operational excellence, Grayson strengthens Baird's competitive edge in the equities market. The Chief Operating Officer - Equities' strategic initiatives aim to improve trading efficiency, reduce operational risk, and expand the division's service capabilities, contributing significantly to Baird's overall market performance.

    Ross Williams - Managing Director Chief Operating Officer

    Ross Williams, the Managing Director Chief Operating Officer at Baird, directs critical operational functions across the enterprise, focusing on strategic implementation and efficiency gains. Williams's purview includes overseeing key support services and driving process improvements that enhance client experience and internal productivity. This leadership position involves close coordination with divisional heads to ensure operational strategies align with Baird's overarching business objectives. Ross Williams is instrumental in managing the firm's resources and infrastructure to support sustained growth in its diverse financial service offerings. The Managing Director Chief Operating Officer's focus on operational excellence underpins Baird's ability to deliver integrated financial solutions. Williams's strategic oversight ensures that Baird's operational framework remains agile and responsive to evolving market demands and client needs.

    Erik Dahlberg - President, Private Wealth Management

    Erik Dahlberg, the President, Private Wealth Management at Baird, leads the firm's extensive private wealth division, focusing on delivering exceptional financial advisory services to individual clients. Dahlberg's strategic direction emphasizes client relationship management, personalized financial planning, and the expansion of wealth management offerings. This executive oversees a network of financial advisors, ensuring they provide tailored solutions that meet the diverse needs of Baird's clientele. Erik Dahlberg is committed to fostering a client-centric environment, driving growth through superior service and expert financial guidance. The President, Private Wealth Management's leadership ensures that Baird maintains its reputation for trust and integrity in serving individuals and families. Dahlberg's focus on operational excellence within the division supports Baird's overall mission of client success.

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

    Mary Stanek, the Co-Chief Investment Officer & President, Baird Advisors, Baird Funds at Baird, directs the investment strategy and management for Baird's advisory services and mutual funds. Stanek's leadership is pivotal in shaping investment philosophies, overseeing portfolio construction, and ensuring optimal performance across various market conditions. This executive role involves rigorous market analysis and strategic asset allocation to meet the investment objectives of Baird's clients and fund shareholders. Mary Stanek collaborates closely with investment teams to identify opportunities and manage risks effectively. The Co-Chief Investment Officer's expertise drives the development of innovative investment products and solutions. Stanek's presidency of Baird Advisors and Baird Funds ensures the integrity and success of the firm's asset management operations, contributing significantly to Baird's financial market presence.
    Mary Stanek

    Rodney Jones-Tyson - Global Chief Human Resources Officer

    Rodney Jones-Tyson, the Global Chief Human Resources Officer at Baird, directs the company's comprehensive human capital strategy and talent management initiatives worldwide. Jones-Tyson's leadership focuses on cultivating a high-performance culture, attracting and retaining top talent, and developing robust employee engagement programs across all Baird's global operations. This role is critical in shaping the employee experience, ensuring that Baird's workforce is equipped with the skills and support necessary to drive client success. Rodney Jones-Tyson oversees talent acquisition, compensation and benefits, organizational development, and diversity and inclusion efforts. The Global Chief Human Resources Officer's strategic approach to human resources strengthens Baird's organizational capabilities and supports its long-term business objectives by fostering a motivated and skilled employee base.
    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 8 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, Managing Director Chief Operating Officer.