First Merchants Corp Announces CEO Retirement; Michael J. Stewart to Succeed

What Happened First Merchants Corporation (FRME) filed an 8-K on October 1, 2026 announcing that current Chief Executive Officer Mark K. Hardwick will retire effective January 1, 2027. As part of the company’s executive succession plan, Michael J. Stewart will assume the role of President and Chief Executive Officer and become the company’s principal executive officer effective January 1, 2027. Background on Mr. Stewart is incorporated by reference from the company’s Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A filed April 3, 2026.

Key Details

• Mark K. Hardwick’s retirement effective date: January 1, 2027; announcement filed October 1, 2026.
• Michael J. Stewart will serve as President & CEO and principal executive officer starting January 1, 2027, continuing until the next annual board meeting or his successor is appointed.
• The filing states there are no new compensatory arrangements, material contracts, awards, family relationships, or related-party transactions requiring disclosure in connection with Mr. Stewart’s appointment.
• The company issued a press release on October 1, 2026 about the executive change.

Why It Matters This is a planned leadership transition executed under First Merchants’ succession plan, providing continuity at the CEO level. For investors, the filing signals a non-disruptive change in management with no immediate new compensation or related-party issues disclosed. Review the referenced April 3, 2026 proxy filing for more details on Mr. Stewart’s background and experience.