West Pharmaceutical Names Thermo Fisher COO Michel Lagarde as New CEO
Event summary
- Michel Lagarde, former COO of Thermo Fisher Scientific, appointed CEO of West Pharmaceutical Services effective August 31, 2026
- Succeeds Eric M. Green, who will retire from all executive roles on the same date
- Robert F. Friel, Lead Independent Director, becomes Board Chair as part of leadership transition
- Lagarde brings 20+ years of experience in pharmaceutical services and healthcare technology
- West generated $3.07 billion in net sales in fiscal year 2025
The big picture
The appointment comes as the life sciences industry faces accelerating innovation and AI transformation in therapy development. Lagarde's background in large-scale pharmaceutical services suggests a focus on operational efficiency and customer-centric solutions. With $3.07 billion in annual revenue, West operates at significant scale in the injectable drug delivery market, positioning it as a key player in the evolving healthcare technology landscape.
What we're watching
- Strategic Vision
- How Lagarde's experience at Thermo Fisher will shape West's approach to AI-driven drug development and delivery
- Operational Integration
- Whether Lagarde can maintain West's manufacturing excellence while accelerating innovation
- Market Positioning
- The pace at which West can capitalize on growing demand for injectable drug solutions