IRVINE, CA May 14, 2013 -- Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (NYSE: EW), the global leader in the science of heart valves and hemodynamic monitoring, today announced that Thomas M. Abate, the company's chief financial officer, plans to retire later this year. Abate, who turns 60 in August, plans to remain CFO until his successor is in place. The company has retained Peter Crist of Crist/Kolder Associates to assist in the CFO search.

"Tom has had a very productive 31-year career with our company, and I want to thank him for his many significant contributions to our success," said Michael A. Mussallem, Edwards' chairman and CEO. "Tom played an important role in establishing Edwards as a standalone company following our spinoff from Baxter Healthcare Corporation in 2000. He has been a valuable business partner and has been instrumental in helping us adapt to an evolving financial landscape, while also positioning the company for the future. His dedication to Edwards has been exemplary, and we look forward to his continued leadership through this transition."

Abate became Edwards' CFO in January 2006. Previously, he was the company's vice president and controller, a position he had held since Edwards became an independent company. In the 18 years prior, Abate was with Baxter in other finance-related positions.

About Edwards Lifesciences
Edwards Lifesciences is the global leader in the science of heart valves and hemodynamic monitoring. Driven by a passion to help patients, the company partners with clinicians to develop innovative technologies in the areas of structural heart disease and critical care monitoring, enabling them to save and enhance lives. Additional company information can be found at edwards.com.