NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. — Johnson & Johnson announced Monday the appointment of Larry Merlo as non-executive chair designate for the future, listed New Consumer Health Company’s Board of Directors. Merlo previously served as president and CEO of CVS Health and brings over 30 years of purpose-driven and transformative health leadership to the Board for the planned new company.

Larry Merlo

As announced in November 2021, the planned separation would create two global leaders – the new Johnson & Johnson and the New Consumer Health Company – both better positioned to deliver improved health outcomes for patients and consumers through innovation, pursue more targeted business strategies and accelerate growth.

Today’s announcement follows the appointment of Thibaut Mongon as chief executive officer Designate in May 2022.

Merlo will formally assume the role as non-executive chair upon completion of the planned separation, expected to occur in 2023 subject to legal requirements including consultation with works councils and employee representatives, as required. Additional Directors will be determined and announced in the coming months as the planned separation process progresses.

Alex Gorsky, executive chairman of Johnson & Johnson shared, “On behalf of the Board, I am pleased to welcome Larry as Chair Designate of the planned New Consumer Health Company. A purpose-driven leader, Larry’s experience in the fast-paced health retail sector will be a strong asset to the leadership team as they unlock value and deliver for consumers as a standalone company.”

“It is an exciting time for the business and the industry at large,” said Larry Merlo, Chair Designate for the planned New Consumer Health Company. “With an iconic portfolio of consumer health brands, legacy of scientific rigor, category-creating innovation, and a digital-first mindset, there is no doubt that the planned New Consumer Health Company will be an industry force. I look forward to being part of this journey with Thibaut and the leadership team and making a positive impact on the health and wellness of over one billion people around the world that rely on these products every day.”

“Throughout his career, Larry has placed the health and wellness of people first,” added Thibaut Mongon, executive vice president and Worldwide Chairman of Consumer Health at Johnson & Johnson and CEO Designate of the planned New Consumer Health Company. “Larry’s in-depth knowledge of health and consumer trends, combined with his values-based leadership approach, are aligned with our commitment to help improve the personal health of people around the world. I look forward to our partnership as we work towards the planned separation and set the course for the future of Consumer Health.”