Who is the new CFO and what is their background?

The new Corporate Vice President, Chief Financial Officer is Theodora Mistras, effective May 29, 2026. She has a strong financial background, most recently serving as CFO of Viatris, Inc. Prior to that, she spent over 15 years in healthcare investment banking at Goldman Sachs and served as a Managing Director at Citigroup Global Markets in the same sector.

Are there any clawback provisions on the sign-on bonus?

Yes, Ms. Mistras has agreed to repay a pro-rata portion of the $2,013,000 sign-on bonus if she voluntarily terminates her employment or if the Company terminates her employment for misconduct within 24 months of her start date.

What are the vesting terms for the initial RSU award?

The $8,000,000 restricted stock unit (RSU) award will vest over three years: 43.75% on the first anniversary of her start date, 50% on the second anniversary, and 6.25% on the third anniversary, contingent upon her continued employment. Certain conditions, such as termination without Cause or resignation for Good Reason, can accelerate full vesting.

EW 8-K: Leadership Changes & Regulation FD

Q: What is the total compensation package for the new CFO?

Ms. Mistras will receive an annual base salary of $925,000, with a target annual bonus of at least 100% of her base salary. She will also receive a $2,013,000 sign-on bonus and an initial restricted stock unit (RSU) grant valued at $8,000,000, which vests over three years. She is also eligible for future annual equity awards, with the fiscal year 2026 award valued at $4,500,000.

Summary

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (EW) has announced a significant leadership change in its finance department, appointing Theodora Mistras as its new Corporate Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, effective May 29, 2026. Ms. Mistras succeeds Scott B. Ullem and brings a strong background in healthcare investment banking from her previous roles at Citigroup and Goldman Sachs, as well as her recent experience as CFO of Viatris, Inc. This appointment signals a potential strategic focus on financial operations and capital allocation under new leadership. Investors should note the comprehensive compensation package, including a substantial base salary, bonus potential, a significant sign-on bonus, and substantial equity awards, which underscores the company's investment in securing experienced financial leadership. The new CFO's compensation package includes an annual base salary of $925,000, a target annual bonus of at least 100% of base salary, a $2,013,000 sign-on bonus, and an initial restricted stock unit (RSU) grant valued at $8,000,000. Future annual equity awards are also planned, with a $4,500,000 grant date value for fiscal year 2026. This structure indicates a strong emphasis on aligning Ms. Mistras's incentives with the company's long-term performance and shareholder value. The company has also provided severance protections and relocation assistance, demonstrating a commitment to supporting its new executive through the transition.

Key Highlights

1Theodora Mistras appointed as new Corporate Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, effective May 29, 2026.
2Ms. Mistras brings extensive experience from Viatris, Inc. (CFO), Citigroup, and Goldman Sachs (Healthcare Investment Banking).
3Annual base salary for Ms. Mistras will be $925,000.
4Ms. Mistras is eligible for a target annual bonus of at least 100% of her base salary.
5A sign-on bonus of $2,013,000 is provided, with a repayment clause for voluntary termination or termination for cause within 24 months.
6Initial restricted stock unit (RSU) award valued at $8,000,000, with a phased vesting schedule over three years.
7Annual equity awards are planned, with a fiscal year 2026 award valued at $4,500,000.

Edwards Lifesciences Corp 8-K Report, Executive Changes (May 4, 2026)

Summary

Key Highlights

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