'Data and digital' - new Novartis CEO outlines 2018 vision after release of 2017 results

By Johan De Mulder

Incoming Novartis Chief Executive Officer Vas Narasimhan will put data and digital at the heart of its vision for the future.

Quoted on publication of the Swiss pharmaceutical company's annual accounts for 2017, Narasimhan said he is keen for Novartis to continue to drive innovation in the industry.

He will take over officially from current incumbent Joe Jimenez on 1st February, with the firm forecasting a mid-to-high single digit rise in operating profit for 2018.

See also:


"I want to thank Joe and the Board for their leadership and guidance as I transition to my new role," said Narasimhan.

"As CEO my priorities will be driving our next growth phase by strengthening operational execution, delivering more breakthrough innovation, pivoting to become a data centric, digitally enabled organization, building trust and reputation and transforming our culture. I feel privileged to lead Novartis at this exciting time."

Novartis' stock has gained 17% in the last 12 months, though there was a 1% drop in core operating profit in 2017 despite recording close to €50bn worth of sales.

Share
Share

Featured Articles

Top 10 fastest-growing Indian companies in the UK

Business Chief takes a look at the top 10 fastest-growing Indian companies in the UK, according to the India Meets Britain Tracker from Grant Thornton

Top 10 workplaces prioritising people and planet in the UAE

Sustainable, flexible, collaborative, tech-driven, and amenities-rich, the office of the future considers both people and planet – here are 10 in the UAE

Top 10 female HR execs leading Saudi’s workplace transition

As Saudi pushes for more nationals and women in the workplace, all eyes are on the Kingdom’s HR leaders. Here, 10 female HR execs leading the transition

Top 10 largest asset managers by AUM operating in the UAE

Corporate Finance

Top 10 female CEOs leading Africa’s biggest businesses

Leadership & Strategy

Top 10 Executive MBA programmes in the United Arab Emirates

Leadership & Strategy