Outgoing Merck CEO switches to the top of Sanofi - Belén Garijo returns to Sanofi as CEO after Merck leadership success
Belén Garijo is set to take over as CEO of Sanofi, replacing Paul Hudson. The change comes after Hudson's departure on February 17 and marks Garijo's return to the company where she spent 15 years in senior roles. Her appointment will begin on April 29.
Garijo first joined Sanofi in 2003, working as Senior Vice President for Europe before leading the integration of Genzyme after its acquisition. She later left in 2010 but remained a prominent figure in the pharmaceutical sector. At Merck, she served as CEO, guiding the company through the COVID-19 pandemic and overseeing key acquisitions, including the purchase of Springworks Therapeutics.
Her departure from Merck was long planned, with Kai Beckmann scheduled to succeed her on May 1. Industry observers have highlighted her leadership and strategic expertise, which now position her to lead Sanofi into its next phase.
Paul Hudson officially stepped down as Sanofi's CEO in February, clearing the way for Garijo's arrival. Her deep experience with the company and her track record in crisis management are expected to shape her tenure.
Garijo's move to Sanofi will see her take charge on April 29. The transition follows a carefully planned handover at Merck, where Beckmann will assume leadership the following week. Her return to Sanofi brings extensive industry knowledge and a history of driving major corporate decisions.
