Fortune Brands Appoints Jonathan Baksht as CFO

The leadership change signals a strategic transition as Fortune Brands deepens its focus on connected security products.

April 04, 2025

Leadership Transition Set for May

Fortune Brands is gearing up for a leadership shift. Starting May 5, 2025, Jonathan Baksht will take over as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. He’s stepping into the role as David Barry transitions out of the CFO seat. Barry isn’t leaving the company—he’ll continue to lead the Security and Connected Products division, where he’s been focused on building out that side of the business.

Baksht’s Industry Experience and Background

Baksht brings experience from both manufacturing and energy. Most recently, he served as CFO of Pactiv Evergreen, a major player in food and beverage packaging. Before that, he spent several years at Valaris Limited, an offshore drilling firm, where he moved through senior finance roles and eventually became CFO.

His background spans both operational finance and leadership across complex global businesses. He holds an electrical engineering degree from the University of Texas and an MBA from Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management.

Focus on Continuity and Execution

The move signals Fortune Brands’ focus on continuity and long-term execution. Barry has been leading the push into connected home products—an area the company continues to invest in. Keeping him in that role while bringing in a new CFO allows both priorities to move forward at speed.

Compensation Structure Aligned with Executive Strategy

Baksht’s offer includes:

Base salary:$800,000 annually

Annual target bonus: 85% of base salary

Long-term equity incentive:$2 million in total value, split among stock options, restricted stock units, and performance-based shares

Sign-on equity award:$750,000, vesting in thirds over three years

These awards, along with access to the company’s benefit programs and executive severance protections, align with Fortune Brands’ approach to senior leadership compensation.

Announcement and Strategic Outlook

The announcement came via press release on April 3, shortly after Board approval. It laid out both the transition details and the rationale behind the move. With Baksht stepping in, the company gains a CFO who can manage day-to-day financial operations while supporting a broader growth strategy.

Fortune Brands is positioning itself for what comes next. With a strong bench and targeted leadership transitions, the company is keeping pace with a market that demands clarity, structure, and execution. This appointment reflects that approach—pairing deep experience with forward momentum.