Novo Nordisk updates executive leadership structure

DENMARK—Novo Nordisk, a leading global healthcare company based in Denmark, has announced key changes in its Executive Management team, effective April 3, 2025.

This strategic shift follows the departure of Camilla Sylvest, who has been an integral part of the company for 28 years, serving as Executive Vice President of Commercial Strategy & Corporate Affairs for the past seven years.

Camilla Sylvest’s decision to leave marks the end of an era at Novo Nordisk, where she has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s commercial and corporate strategies.

Her contributions have been instrumental in driving growth and innovation within the organization.

 As she steps down, Novo Nordisk is set to embark on a new chapter, leveraging the expertise of its existing leadership to navigate future challenges and opportunities.

One of the key appointments is that of Ludovic Helfgott, who will now oversee Product & Portfolio Strategy.

This expanded role encompasses commercial strategy, medical affairs, and business development across all therapy areas.

Ludovic joined Novo Nordisk in 2019 as Executive Vice President of Rare Diseases and has played a key role in establishing a strategic portfolio for Rare Diseases.

Before his tenure at Novo Nordisk, he led the cardiovascular, metabolic, and renal portfolios at AstraZeneca, bringing a wealth of experience in managing diverse therapeutic areas.

Another significant promotion is that of Thilde Hummel Bøgebjerg, who has been elevated to Executive Vice President of Quality, IT & Environmental Affairs.

Thilde has been with Novo Nordisk for 18 years, holding various leadership roles with increasing responsibility, primarily within Product Supply and CMC development.

Her extensive experience and expertise will be crucial in ensuring the company maintains high standards in quality and environmental sustainability.

Additionally, Tania Sabroe, Executive Vice President of People & Organisation, will now also lead Global Communication.

This expansion of her role underscores the importance of effective communication in aligning organisational goals and strategies across different departments.

These changes reflect Novo Nordisk’s commitment to innovation and strategic alignment, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of the pharmaceutical sector.

 The updated Executive Management team, led by President and CEO Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen, comprises a diverse group of leaders responsible for key functions, including international operations, development, US operations, and research and early development.

As of April 3, 2025, the Executive Management team will comprise Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen as President and CEO, Thilde Hummel Bøgebjerg as EVP, Quality, IT, and Environmental Affairs, and Maziar Mike Doustdar as EVP, International Operations.

Additionally, Ludovic Helfgott will be EVP, Product & Portfolio Strategy, Karsten Munk Knudsen as EVP, Chief Financial Officer, and Martin Holst Lange as EVP, Development.

Others will include Dave Moore as EVP, US Operations; Tania Sabroe as EVP, People, Organisation, and Communication; Marcus Schindler as EVP, Chief Scientific Officer, Research & Early Development; and Henrik Wulff as EVP, Product Supply.

These leadership changes are part of Novo Nordisk’s broader strategy to strengthen its position in critical therapeutic areas, including diabetes and rare diseases.

 With a global presence spanning 80 countries and products marketed in around 170 countries, Novo Nordisk continues to drive innovation and expand access to its medicines, aligning with its mission to defeat serious chronic diseases.

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