8-KLeadership ChangesRegulation FDExhibits & Filings

CME GROUP INC. 8-K Report, Executive Changes (Jun 17, 2026)

Filed June 17, 2026For Securities:CME

Summary

CME Group Inc. (CME) announced a significant leadership transition, with current Chairman and CEO Terrence A. Duffy transitioning to Executive Chairman and President and CFO Lynne C. Fitzpatrick succeeding him as Chief Executive Officer. This leadership change, effective on the later of March 1, 2027, or the filing of the 2026 10-K, aims to ensure leadership continuity and leverage Duffy's extensive experience in a strategic oversight role while elevating Fitzpatrick, a long-tenured executive with deep financial and operational expertise, to lead the company. The transition plan outlines specific arrangements for both executives. Mr. Duffy will continue as CEO until the transition date and then serve as Executive Chairman through December 31, 2027, with his compensation and benefits largely remaining consistent. Ms. Fitzpatrick will assume the CEO role and a board seat on the transition date, with a new compensation package including a $1.2 million base salary, a 200% target bonus, and a 700% long-term incentive opportunity. The company has also commenced a search for Ms. Fitzpatrick's successor as CFO.

Key Highlights

  • 1Terrence A. Duffy to transition from CEO to Executive Chairman, effective March 1, 2027 (or later upon 2026 10-K filing).
  • 2Lynne C. Fitzpatrick appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Mr. Duffy.
  • 3Ms. Fitzpatrick will also be appointed to the Board of Directors and its Executive Committee upon assuming the CEO role.
  • 4Mr. Duffy's role as Executive Chairman will extend through December 31, 2027, focusing on strategic oversight and transition facilitation.
  • 5Ms. Fitzpatrick's new compensation package as CEO includes a $1.2 million base salary, 200% annual bonus target, and 700% long-term incentive target.
  • 6CME Group will initiate a search for a successor to Ms. Fitzpatrick as Chief Financial Officer.
  • 7The transition is designed to ensure continuity in leadership and strategic direction for the company.

Frequently Asked Questions

The leadership transition, including Ms. Fitzpatrick's appointment as CEO, will become effective on the later of March 1, 2027, or the date CME Group files its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year 2026.

Mr. Duffy will serve as Executive Chairman from the transition date through December 31, 2027. In this role, he will focus on facilitating a successful CEO transition, maintaining leadership continuity, and assisting the Board with governance and strategic oversight.

Upon assuming the CEO role, Ms. Fitzpatrick's annual base salary will be $1.2 million. Her annual bonus opportunity will be 200% of her base salary, and her annual long-term incentive opportunity will be 700% of her base salary. She will also remain eligible for other executive benefits.

Yes, CME Group will initiate a search for potential candidates to succeed Ms. Fitzpatrick as the Chief Financial Officer.