In a major change for the global pharmaceutical landscape, Sanofi’s Board of Directors announces that Belén Garijo will become the company’s next CEO. The decision follows the board’s move on 11 February, to not renew the tenure of Paul Hudson, who concludes his six-year leadership on 17 February.
Return to roots
Garijo, a former doctor and industry veteran, brings a deep understanding of Sanofi’s internal operations to the role. Before her historic run as the first female CEO at Merck KGaA, she spent 15 years at Sanofi in pivotal roles, including vice president of pharma operations for Europe and Canada. A highlight of her previous tenure was leading the integration of Genzyme in the US, an achievement that demonstrates her ability to manage complex global infrastructure and high-stakes acquisitions.
Frédéric Oudéa, Chairman of the Board, Sanofi, emphasises the rationale behind the appointment: “She has the experience and profile to accelerate the pace, strengthen the quality of execution of strategy and lead the next growth cycle of the company, which is essential to build the Group’s future.”
During the interim period between Hudson’s departure and Garijo’s formal start date on 29 April 2026, Olivier Charmeil, Executive Vice President of General Medicines, serves as Interim CEO.
Focus on R&D productivity
As Sanofi continues its evolution into an AI-powered pharma leader, Garijo’s objective is clear: prioritise strengthening the company’s productivity, governance and innovation capacity within its R&D divisions.
The board is confident that Garijo’s experience in clinical medicine and corporate transformation will benefit both patients and shareholders. Oudéa notes: “In a rapidly changing pharma industry, we place Sanofi in experienced hands and Belén Garijo’s brilliant international career attests to her strategic vision.”
This appointment represents a calculated move to lean on a trusted, proven executive and fulfil the Group’s purpose to “chase the miracles of science” through an increasingly competitive global market.
