Almirall lures Sanofi exec as new CEO

Following the succession plan initiated more than a year ago, when Eduardo Sanchiz expressed his wish to devote more time to his family and other interests, the board of directors of Spain’s largest pharma firm Almirall (ALM: MC) has approved the appointment of Peter Guenter as chief executive effective October 1, 2017.

Mr Guenter joins Almirall from French pharma major Sanofi (Euronext: SAN), where he has worked for the last 22 years, most recently as executive vice president diabetes and cardiovascular global business unit. During his tenure at Sanofi, he held many senior positions including VP Eastern Europe and Northern Europe, VP business management. Before joining Sanofi, he held different positions in sales and marketing at Smith Kline and Ciba Geigy.

“I am particularly satisfied that we have been able to attract Peter Guenter to Almirall. He is a truly global leader and brings a wealth of experience in US, Europe and Emerging Markets. I am convinced he will bring what is needed to develop Almirall to the next level,” said Jorge Gallardo, chairman of Almirall.