Danaher Corporation announced the appointment of Julie Sawyer Montgomery as its next President and Chief Executive Officer, effective October 1, 2026. She will succeed Rainer M. Blair, who is retiring. Mr. Blair will serve as a Senior Advisor to support the transition through March 31, 2027. In connection with the leadership change, the company also disclosed the new CEO's compensation package and a series of special long-term equity awards to key executives and co-founders.
Key Details
- Leadership Transition: Julie Sawyer Montgomery will assume the role of President & CEO on October 1, 2026, at which time she will also join the Board of Directors. Rainer M. Blair will retire as CEO and remain a Senior Advisor until December 31, 2026, and a consultant until March 31, 2027.
- New CEO Compensation: Ms. Sawyer Montgomery's compensation includes a $1.5 million annual base salary, a target annual bonus of 200% of base salary, and a 2027 long-term incentive award target of $13.2 million. She will also receive a special stock option award with a target value of $20 million, vesting on the 4th and 5th anniversaries of the grant date.
- Special Equity Awards: As part of a new "Long-Term Growth Program," the company granted special equity awards to key leaders, including co-founders Steven and Mitchell Rales, who will each receive options for 1,000,000 shares and 500,000 RSUs.
- Guidance Reaffirmed: Danaher stated there is no change to its previously communicated third quarter and full-year 2026 guidance.