// Walgreens Boots Alliance appoints Rosalind Brewer as CEO, effective March 15
// Stefano Pessina moves to executive chairman role, replacing James Skinner who will remain as non-exec director
// Pessina has served as CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance since December 2014
Boots parent company Walgreens Boots Alliance has announced the appointment of Rosalind Brewer as its new chief executive officer.
Effective from March 15, Brewer will also join the firm’s board of directors.
She succeeds Stefano Pessina who, as previously announced, will transition to the role of executive chairman of the board – also effective in March.
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Pessina has served as chief executive of Walgreens Boots Alliance since the company was formed after the merger between Walgreens and Alliance Boots in December 2014.
He is credited for transforming and modernising Walgreens Boots Alliance into a global pharmacy, health and wellness retail giant, through significant expansion of its retail footprint and digital investment.
Boots continues to be one of the firm’s flagship retail chains, alongside Walgreens in the US.
Pessina will replace James Skinner, who will remain on the board as a non-executive director to facilitate a smooth leadership transition.
Meanwhile, Brewer most recently served as chief operating officer, group president and board member of Starbucks, where she was instrumental in helping the company accelerate its growth strategy and expand its global reach.
Prior to Starbucks, Brewer served as president and chief executive of Sam’s Club, the members-only warehouse channel of Walmart.
“The board conducted an extensive search to identify an exceptional leader who will build on Walgreen Boots Alliance’s track-record of success and take advantage of the many growth opportunities in many markets across the company,” Pessina said.
“We are excited to have found that person in Roz. She is a distinguished and experienced executive who has led organizations globally through periods of changing consumer behaviour by applying innovation that elevates customer experiences – ultimately driving significant and sustainable growth and value creation.
“Her relentless focus on the customer, talent development, operational rigor and strong expertise in digital and technological transformation are exactly what Walgreen Boots Alliance needs as the company enters its next chapter.
“I look forward to working with Roz, and to continuing to partner with Jim and the entire Board and management team to take our company forward.”
Brewer said: “Walgreen Boots Alliance is a world-class and trusted organisation whose purpose I deeply admire.
“The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and I am excited to work alongside the entire WBA team as we deliver further innovation and positively impact the lives of millions of people around the world every day.
“This is especially true today as the company plays a crucial role in combatting the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I step into this role with great optimism for the future of Walgreen Boots Alliance, a shared responsibility to serve our customers, patients and communities, and a commitment to drive long-term sustainable value for shareholders.”
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