GSK vaccines business management shift

Jean Stephenne has been appointed as chairman of GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) Biologicals as part of GSK's planned succession strategy.

Mr Stephenne will assume his new position with immediate effect while continuing in his current role as president, GSK Biologicals. Over the next two years operational responsibility for GSK Biologicals will move to Dr Moncef Slaoui, who continues in his current role as chairman of research and development. 

CEO of GSK, Andrew Witty, commented: "Succession planning is fundamental to GSK's long-term success and today's changes are clear evidence that we are taking proactive steps to maintain excellent leadership in our business. Jean has built a world-leading vaccines business and as chairman will continue to be instrumental in driving forward our public health agenda, while Moncef has more than 17 years experience working in the vaccines area and has played a critical role in developing the strong pipeline we have today."

According to Mr Witty, these changes to the business will ensure a continued focus on development and delivery of GSK's vaccine pipeline.