Sanofi Names Belén Garijo as New CEO, Replacing Hudson

• Paul Hudson's mandate will not be renewed, with his departure effective February 17, though no specific reason for the leadership change was provided
• Garijo brings extensive pharmaceutical experience, including 15 years at Sanofi, board membership at L'Oreal, and previous role as CEO of German pharmaceutical and specialty materials maker Merck KGaA
• Sanofi chairman Frederic Oudea stated Garijo has the 'experience and profile to accelerate the pace' and strengthen execution of the company's strategy

Summary: Sanofi CEO Leadership Change

Key Development:

French pharmaceutical giant Sanofi announced a leadership transition on February 12, appointing Belén Garijo as its new Chief Executive Officer, replacing Paul Hudson whose mandate will not be renewed.

Timeline:

• Paul Hudson steps down: February 17
• Belén Garijo assumes CEO role: End of February (specific date not provided in excerpt)

New CEO Profile:

Belén Garijo brings extensive pharmaceutical industry experience:

• 15 years at Sanofi in previous roles
• Former CEO of Merck KGaA (German pharmaceuticals and specialty materials company)
• Board member experience at L'Oreal, the French cosmetics giant

Leadership Rationale:

Chairman Frederic Oudea stated Garijo possesses "the experience and profile to accelerate the pace, strengthen the quality of execution of strategy and lead the next growth cycle of the company," signaling potential strategic shifts or acceleration of existing initiatives.

Market Implications:

The leadership change suggests Sanofi's board is pursuing more aggressive execution of its growth strategy. The decision not to renew Hudson's mandate, rather than a planned succession, indicates possible dissatisfaction with current pace or performance. Garijo's deep pharmaceutical sector experience and prior Sanofi tenure suggest continuity in strategic direction but enhanced execution speed.

Hudson did not immediately comment on his departure. The timing and nature of this announcement may prompt investor scrutiny of Sanofi's recent performance and future strategic priorities under new leadership. This represents significant C-suite movement in the European pharmaceutical sector.