GlaxoSmithKline PLC names ex-Tesco PLC chief Sir Dave Lewis to chair

GlaxoSmithKline PLC (LSE:GSK) said it appointed Sir Dave Lewis, the former boss of Tesco PLC (LSE:TSCO), as chair of its new consumer healthcare arm, which is due to be spun off next year.

Lewis left Tesco in September this year after six years as chief executive of the supermarket giant. His appointment at GSK’s demerged consumer healthcare unit will take effect from 1 January 2022.

The demerger of at least 80% of GSK’s shareholding in the consumer healthcare business will take place in mid-2022. The new company will list separately on the London Stock Exchange.

GSK has previously announced that Brian McNamara will be the chief executive officer of the new company.

Sir Jonathan Symonds, chair of GSK, said: “I am delighted to welcome Dave as chair designate of the new consumer company. He brings outstanding global consumer and retail sector experience that will be of valuable support to Brian and the management team as they deliver the full potential of this new world-leading consumer healthcare company.”

Lewis added: “GSK consumer healthcare is a world-class business with significant prospects and a high-quality leadership team. I am looking forward to being part of its exciting future as an independent company and the very positive impact it can have on people’s health all over the world.”