Abbvie CEO Robert A Michael to assume additional role of Board Chairman
North Chicago: AbbVie has announced that its board of directors has unanimously elected chief executive officer (CEO) Robert A. Michael to assume the additional position of chairman, effective July 1, 2025.
He will succeed Richard A. Gonzalez, who formerly served as AbbVie's CEO and has been chairman since the Company's formation in 2013.
"I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Rick for his remarkable leadership and dedicated service," said Roxanne S. Austin, lead independent director. "The board and I have complete confidence in Rob, and we are fortunate to have him assume the role of chairman. Rob is a visionary leader who operates with integrity and a steadfast commitment to AbbVie, its people, patients and shareholders. He is the right leader to guide this company into its next phase of growth."
Prior to being named CEO, Michael was president and chief operating officer of AbbVie and has been a longstanding member of the Company's Executive Leadership Team. From establishing AbbVie's first financial planning organization, to developing its diversified business strategy, to successfully navigating the end of exclusivity for Humira in the U.S., Michael has been integral to AbbVie's success and growth over the years. In the role of president and chief operating officer, Michael was responsible for global commercial operations, finance, corporate human resources, global operations, business development and corporate strategy for the company. He was previously appointed vice chairman and president in 2022, vice chairman, finance and commercial operations in 2021 and chief financial officer in 2018.
Michael has more than 32 years of experience including leadership roles across multiple businesses, including pharmaceuticals, aesthetics, diagnostics, diabetes care and nutrition. He began his career with Abbott as a member of the financial development program.
"I am honored to take on the role of chairman," said Robert A. Michael, chief executive officer. "On behalf of our employees around the world, I extend my sincere gratitude to Rick for his exceptional leadership over the past 12 years. I look forward to partnering with the board to build on AbbVie's track record of success and to make a remarkable impact for our patients, employees, shareholders and communities."
"I am deeply grateful to the board for their strategic vision and support over the past 12 years," said Richard A. Gonzalez, executive chairman of the board and former chief executive officer. "Serving alongside the talented people of AbbVie has been the greatest privilege of my career. I am confident that Rob and the board will successfully lead AbbVie into the future, continuing to deliver groundbreaking medicines for our patients and creating tremendous value for our shareholders."
In addition, Glenn F. Tilton will retire from AbbVie's board effective July 1, 2025. Mr. Tilton served as lead independent director from 2013 to 2024 and was succeeded by Ms. Austin in July 2024.
