Baxter International Inc. has announced the appointment of Andrew Hider as its next Chief Executive Officer, with the transition set to be completed no later than September 3, 2025. Hider, currently the CEO of Canadian automation and industrial technology firm ATS Corporation, will take over from interim CEO Brent Shafer, who will remain as chair of Baxter’s board following the leadership change.
The move comes at a pivotal juncture for Baxter, as the medical products and healthcare solutions company continues a comprehensive transformation strategy. Central to that plan is the spin-off of its renal care business and a broader push to modernize its operations through digital technologies and enhanced supply chain agility.
Hider’s appointment signals a deliberate effort by Baxter’s board to bring in leadership with cross-sector operational experience. At ATS, Hider was credited with driving the company’s global growth and implementing significant digital transformation initiatives that expanded automation capabilities across multiple industries. Prior to that, he held executive roles at Danaher Corporation and General Electric, leading large-scale operations in sectors including advanced manufacturing, industrial products, and transportation.
“Andrew brings a unique combination of technical acumen, operational discipline, and strategic leadership experience,” Baxter stated in its announcement. “His background aligns closely with the company’s evolving needs as we adapt to a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.”
Market reaction to the leadership news was mixed. Shares of Baxter declined by over 4% following the announcement, while ATS stock dropped approximately 8.3%, reflecting investor uncertainty over the near-term implications for both firms. Despite this initial response, Baxter’s year-to-date performance remains slightly positive, indicating sustained confidence in its long-term restructuring efforts.
Interim CEO Brent Shafer, who took the helm earlier in 2024 following the departure of José (Joe) Almeida, is expected to continue playing a key governance role as board chair. Shafer, the former CEO of Cerner Corporation, was appointed to provide continuity and strategic oversight during Baxter’s transitional period.
Baxter’s recent moves are part of a broader trend among major healthcare firms seeking to refocus core businesses, optimize costs, and innovate amid rising regulatory and technological pressures. The spin-off of the kidney care division, set for completion in 2025, is intended to streamline operations and unlock value by creating two independent, more agile organizations.
With his track record in advanced automation and operational excellence, Hider is expected to guide Baxter through the next phase of this transition. His leadership is likely to focus on enhancing product delivery, digitizing core services, and expanding Baxter’s footprint in key global markets.
