Jill Evanko Steps Away From Chart Industries Helm Amid $13.6B Baker Hughes Takeover

Chart Industries announced a major leadership shift as President and CEO Jill Evanko prepares to exit the company in early 2026. Evanko will transition to a new executive role at a private company while remaining as senior advisor to ensure a smooth handover until Baker Hughes completes its acquisition.

The Leadership Transition

Evanko has led Chart Industries since June 2018 and built an impressive track record at the company. Her departure marks a significant moment for the industrial equipment manufacturer as it undergoes its largest transformation. The Board plans to promote an interim CEO from within the organization, signaling continuity during the acquisition period. Jill will stay on in an advisory capacity, overseeing operational continuity until the deal closes.

Jill’s Career Path and Experience

Before taking the top spot at Chart, Evanko served as Chief Financial Officer since joining in February 2017. Her background spans several blue-chip corporations—she previously held CFO and senior executive positions at Truck-Lite, Dover Corp., Arthur Andersen, Honeywell, and Sony. Additionally, Jill serves as an independent board director at Greif, Inc., showcasing her influence across multiple industries.

Baker Hughes Acquisition On Track

The transformative Baker Hughes deal values Chart Industries at $13.6 billion, with shareholders receiving $210 per share in cash. The acquisition gained shareholder approval, and regulatory clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act has been finalized. The transaction is expected to close by mid-year 2026, pending standard closing conditions and final regulatory approvals.

Baker Hughes, a global leader in industrial equipment and services, agreed to this acquisition in late July. The deal represents one of the year’s major industrial sector consolidations, combining two significant players in equipment manufacturing and maintenance.