GlaxoSmithKline names chief executive

GlaxoSmithKline has appointed Andrew Witty, president of its European pharmaceuticals business, as its new chief executive. He will replace Jean-Pierre Garnier, who is stepping down from the role, in May next year.

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GlaxoSmithKline has appointed Andrew Witty, president of its European pharmaceuticals business, as its new chief executive. He will replace Jean-Pierre Garnier, who is stepping down from the role, in May next year.

Witty (pictured) was selected from three internal candidates to head up Europe’s biggest drugmaker. The two other contenders were David Stout, the head of the pharmaceuticals division, and Chris Viehbacher, who is head of the company’s US business.

Witty joined the company in 1985 and has held a number of positions across the company markets, inclding director of pharmacy and distribution in the UK and international product manager.

He has also served as managing director for the company’s South African operation.

GSK also has a consumer division, which includes brands such as Lucozade and Aquafresh.