Solventum Appoints New Chief Commercial Officer as Leadership Restructuring Continues

Solventum, the healthcare technology company spun off from 3M last year, has announced a significant change in its executive leadership. Heather Knight, formerly the Chief Operating Officer at Baxter, will join Solventum as its new Chief Commercial Officer, effective November 10. This appointment comes as part of a broader restructuring of the company's top management.

Knight's Appointment and Expanded Role

Heather Knight's new position as Chief Commercial Officer is a newly created role at Solventum. In this capacity, she will oversee global commercial and R&D operations across the company's medical surgical, dental solutions, and health information systems segments. Knight will report directly to Solventum CEO Bryan Hanson.

"By aligning our go-to-market strategy under one leader, we will enhance our ability to leverage the size and scale of Solventum, driving more coordinated execution and profitable growth," Hanson stated, emphasizing the strategic importance of Knight's appointment.

Leadership Transition and Departures

The arrival of Knight coincides with the departure of Chris Barry, Solventum's current group president of medsurg. Barry, who joined 3M shortly before the Solventum spinoff and led the standalone company's medsurg business, will be leaving at the end of 2025. CEO Bryan Hanson expressed gratitude for Barry's contributions and noted that his presence through the end of the year will support a smooth transition.

Implications for Baxter and Industry Dynamics

Knight's move from Baxter to Solventum represents a significant shift in the medical technology landscape. At Baxter, Knight served as Chief Operating Officer and interim group president of medical products and therapies. Her departure will lead to changes in Baxter's leadership structure, with CEO Andrew Hider taking charge of the medical products and therapies business. Baxter has decided to operate without a COO following Knight's exit.

This executive reshuffling highlights the dynamic nature of the medical technology sector, with companies like Solventum and Baxter adapting their leadership structures to meet evolving market demands and strategic objectives.