Sanofi’s Board of Directors has appointed Belen Garijo as the company’s new Chief Executive Officer, effective at the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting on April 29, 2026. Outgoing CEO Paul Hudson’s tenure ended February 17, with Olivier Charmeil serving as Interim CEO during the transition period.
Garijo previously led Merck KGaA as the first female CEO of a DAX40 company and spent 15 years at Sanofi in pharmaceutical operations roles, including leading the company through the Genzyme acquisition. She has also held leadership positions at Abbott and serves on the BBVA board.
The Board said Garijo will “bring an increased rigor to the implementation of Sanofi’s strategy” and strengthen R&D productivity, governance, and innovation capacity. Her prior experience at Sanofi is expected to provide an advantage in quickly aligning the company’s strategic direction and operational execution.