Who is Luke Miels? Meet the New GSK CEO Replacing Emma Walmsley

Monday, September 29, 2025 – GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has announced a major leadership change. After nearly nine years as Chief Executive Officer, Emma Walmsley will step down at the end of this year. She will be succeeded by Luke Miels, the company’s current Chief Commercial Officer, starting January 1, 2026.

Who is Luke Miels?

Luke Miels is a senior pharmaceutical executive who has been with GSK since 2017. As Chief Commercial Officer, he has been responsible for the company’s global medicines and vaccines business. Miels played an important role in expanding GSK’s drug portfolio, particularly in oncology (cancer treatments), an area the company has been trying to rebuild.

Before joining GSK, Miels held leadership positions at several major European pharmaceutical companies. His long experience in global healthcare markets has made him a strong internal candidate for the CEO role.

Why is This Change Significant?

Emma Walmsley was one of the most high-profile female CEOs in the pharmaceutical industry and in British business overall. Her departure marks the end of a notable era for GSK.

During her leadership, Walmsley guided GSK through the COVID-19 pandemic, launched a successful RSV vaccine, and oversaw the separation of GSK’s consumer healthcare business into a standalone company called Haleon Plc.

However, despite these achievements, investor confidence weakened. GSK shares dropped about 11% under Walmsley’s tenure, as concerns grew about the company’s drug pipeline and slow vaccine sales.

The Road Ahead for Luke Miels

Miels will step into the top role at a challenging but important time. Investors expect him to strengthen GSK’s research pipeline, deliver more breakthrough medicines, and drive growth in oncology, vaccines, and specialty medicines.

GSK has also pledged to invest $30 billion in the United States over the next five years, a move that reflects both growth opportunities and political pressure to align drug pricing more closely between the US and other markets.

The leadership change follows a succession planning process that included both internal and external candidates, but ultimately GSK chose continuity with Miels.

Luke Miels will become the new face of GSK on January 1, 2026, succeeding Emma Walmsley. His deep industry experience and proven track record inside the company will be key as GSK navigates investor pressure, drug development challenges, and global healthcare demands.