Sanofi's Board appointed Belén Garijo, outgoing Merck KGaA CEO, as new CEO effective April 29, 2026, replacing Paul Hudson whose contract ends February 17, 2026.12
The board praised Garijo's experience, including 15 years at Sanofi, and stated she will strengthen R&D productivity, governance, and innovation, signaling commitment to strategy including immunology.24
Hudson's tenure saw increased R&D investment for immunology pipeline like Dupixent successor, but faced setbacks; board thanked him but seeks rigor under Garijo.35
Olivier Charmeil serves as interim CEO until Garijo starts; Chairman Frédéric Oudéa highlighted Garijo's strategic vision for growth.24
Sources:
1. https://www.pharmaceutical-technology.com/news/sanofi-replaces-ceo-paul-hudson-with-outgoing-merck-kgaa-head/
2. https://www.sanofi.com/en/media-room/press-releases/2026/2026-02-12-06-30-00-3236866
3. https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/12/sanofi-ceo-replaced-paul-hudson-belen-garijo/
4. https://manufacturingchemist.com/bel%C3%A9n-garijo-to-become-chief-executive-officer-of
5. https://pharmaphorum.com/news/hudson-out-sanofi-belen-garijo-named-ceo