Baird Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to client success, Baird provides comprehensive financial services, fostering long-term relationships and delivering impactful solutions 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
  • 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, defines the overarching strategic direction and corporate vision. Trennert guides the firm's expansion into new markets and the development of innovative financial products and services, aligning all entities under a unified strategic umbrella. This executive leadership position involves fostering a culture of growth and client-centricity across Baird's various strategic ventures. Jason Trennert actively engages with key stakeholders, including clients, partners, and the board, to ensure sustained financial performance and market leadership. The Chairman & Chief Executive Officer (Strategies & Related Companies) role is pivotal in shaping Baird's long-term trajectory and solidifying its reputation as a trusted financial partner.
    Jason Trennert

    Terrance Maxwell - Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director

    Terrance Maxwell, the Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director at Baird, oversees the firm's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Maxwell manages all aspects of financial operations, including accounting, budgeting, forecasting, and capital management, ensuring fiscal responsibility and driving profitability. This executive role is crucial for maintaining investor confidence and supporting the company's long-term financial stability and growth objectives. Terrance Maxwell works closely with business unit leaders to provide financial insights and guidance, enabling informed decision-making across the organization. The Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director ensures compliance with financial regulations and optimizes the firm's capital structure to enhance shareholder value and support strategic initiatives.
    Terrance Maxwell

    Cindy Gean - Chief Operating Officer

    Cindy Gean, the Chief Operating Officer at Baird, directs the operational framework supporting the firm's diverse financial services. Gean oversees the integration of technology and process improvements across all business units, ensuring seamless service delivery for wealth management, investment banking, and asset management clients. This leadership role focuses on enhancing operational efficiency and scalability, directly contributing to Baird's ability to expand its market reach and client base. By optimizing internal workflows and resource allocation, Cindy Gean ensures that the firm's infrastructure robustly supports strategic growth initiatives and maintains high standards of service excellence. The operational oversight extends to managing risk and compliance, safeguarding the firm's integrity and client trust.

    Jennifer Grayson - Chief Operating Officer - Equities

    Jennifer Grayson, the Chief Operating Officer - Equities at Baird, spearheads the operational strategies for the equities division. Grayson manages the complex processes inherent in equity trading, research, and client services, ensuring precision and efficiency. This role involves close collaboration with trading desks, research analysts, and sales teams to streamline operations and enhance client experience within the equities market. Jennifer Grayson drives initiatives aimed at improving trade execution, post-trade settlement, and regulatory compliance specific to equity products. The focus remains on building a resilient and high-performing operational foundation that supports Baird's competitive position in the global equities landscape. Grayson's leadership ensures the smooth functioning of all equity-related back-office and middle-office operations.

    Ross Williams - Managing Director Chief Operating Officer

    Ross Williams, the Managing Director Chief Operating Officer at Baird, directs critical operational functions that underpin the firm's comprehensive financial services. Williams focuses on optimizing the operational infrastructure to support Baird's wealth management, investment banking, and asset management divisions. This leadership involves enhancing efficiency, implementing best practices, and ensuring robust risk management across all operational touchpoints. Ross Williams drives initiatives to streamline processes, leverage technology for greater productivity, and maintain the highest standards of service delivery to clients. The Managing Director Chief Operating Officer role is essential for ensuring the seamless execution of business strategies and supporting the firm's sustained growth and market presence. Williams's oversight ensures operational excellence.

    Erik Dahlberg - President, Private Wealth Management

    Erik Dahlberg, the President, Private Wealth Management at Baird, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for the firm's private wealth division. Dahlberg oversees the client advisory services, financial planning, and investment management offerings tailored to individual and family clients. This leadership role focuses on expanding client relationships, enhancing service offerings, and driving growth within the private wealth segment. Erik Dahlberg collaborates with financial advisors to ensure the delivery of exceptional client experiences and personalized financial solutions. The President, Private Wealth Management position is instrumental in maintaining Baird's reputation for trusted advice and client-centric service, ensuring the division's continued success and market leadership.

    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, guides the investment strategies and management of Baird's advisory and fund offerings. Stanek oversees the research, portfolio construction, and performance of investment products, ensuring alignment with market dynamics and client objectives. This executive position is central to delivering superior investment performance and managing risk across diverse portfolios. Mary Stanek works with investment teams to identify opportunities and develop innovative strategies that meet the evolving needs of institutional and individual investors. The Co-Chief Investment Officer & President, Baird Advisors, Baird Funds role is vital for maintaining Baird's competitive edge in asset management and driving value for fund shareholders.
    Mary Stanek

    Rodney Jones-Tyson - Global Chief Human Resources Officer

    Rodney Jones-Tyson, the Global Chief Human Resources Officer at Baird, leads the strategic development and execution of human capital initiatives worldwide. Jones-Tyson is responsible for talent acquisition, employee development, compensation and benefits, and fostering a positive and inclusive corporate culture that aligns with Baird's values. This critical role ensures that Baird attracts, retains, and develops top talent across all its global operations. Rodney Jones-Tyson drives programs that enhance employee engagement, promote professional growth, and support the firm's overall business objectives. The Global Chief Human Resources Officer plays a key part in shaping the employee experience and ensuring that human resources strategies effectively support Baird's mission and competitive positioning in the financial services industry.
    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.