Belén Garijo appointed as Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sanofi

May 15, 2026 | Friday | Leadership Change

Sanofi shareholders approved all resolutions at the company’s Mixed General Meeting held on April 29, 2026, chaired by Frédéric Oudéa. Among the key decisions was the appointment of Belén Garijo to the Board of Directors. In accordance with the Board’s February 11 decision, Garijo will officially assume the role of Chief Executive Officer on May 1, 2026.

Commenting on the appointment, Oudéa said Garijo brings a unique blend of scientific expertise and global operational leadership, backed by extensive experience spanning R&D, corporate strategy, and business transformation. He noted that the Board selected her to guide Sanofi through its next stage of growth with a focus on stronger execution, disciplined capital allocation, and improved conversion of scientific innovation into sustainable business performance. He also highlighted her longstanding experience within Sanofi and emphasized that her leadership style — centered on clear strategic priorities and consistent execution — will be critical in advancing the company’s transformation and delivering long-term value to patients, shareholders, employees, and other stakeholders.

Shareholders also approved the company’s standalone and consolidated financial statements for fiscal year 2025, along with an ordinary annual dividend of €4.12 per share, payable on May 7, 2026.

In addition, the meeting approved the renewal of Board mandates for Christophe Babule and Jean-Paul Kress. Christel Heydemann, CEO of Orange, also joined the Board as an independent director, bringing expertise in leadership, digital transformation, and AI technologies.

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