Emma Walmsley has announced that she will be stepping down as CEO of GSK, after leading the company for almost nine years.
When she assumed the role, Walmsley became the first female CEO of a major pharmaceutical firm. As leader of GSK, she focused on specialty medicines and vaccines, particularly in R&D. One of her greatest achievements during her time as CEO was the demerger and spinoff of Haleon, a consumer healthcare unit that is valued today at £29 billion. Her work will continue to have an effect on GSK after her tenure ends, with 15 major pipeline opportunities launching between 2025 and 2031.
Taking over from Walmsley is Luke Miels, who joined GSK in 2017 as chief commercial officer. He has played a major role in developing the oncology and respiratory medicines portfolio of GSK worldwide. Miels will be CEO Designate until January 1, 2026, at which point he will take over full CEO responsibilities and join the GSK Board.