GSK taps insider to run spin-off consumer health business
The current boss of Glaxosmithkline’s consumer healthcare division will take over the top job when the unit is spun off into its own business next year.
The demerger, which will see majority ownership of the new firm transferred to its shareholders, is the biggest shake-up of the pharma giant’s business in decades.
GSK chairman Jonathan Symonds said that Brian McNamara, who has headed up the consumer division since 2015, was the “right choice”.
“His strong track record of success and deep experience of fast moving consumer goods and consumer health, proven at P&G, Novartis and GSK, means he is the right choice”, he said.
McNamara said: “I am honoured to have this opportunity. Together with the many talented people we have in our business, I am looking forward to our exciting future as an independent company.
“I am confident we are well positioned for growth, building on our brands and innovation, with leading-edge science and human understanding, to deliver better everyday health.”
McNamara helmed the £9.8bn merger with Pfizer which formed the consumer healthcare business back in December 2018.
GSK said that it expected to announce the appointment of a chair for the new business in the second half of the year.