Novo Nordisk A/S: Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen to step down as CEO of Novo Nordisk

Core Viewpoint - Novo Nordisk is undergoing a leadership change with Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen stepping down as CEO, amid recent market challenges and a decline in share price since mid-2024 [2][3][4]. Group 1: Leadership Changes - Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen will continue as CEO temporarily to ensure a smooth transition to new leadership while a search for his successor is ongoing [2][4]. - Lars Rebien Sørensen, chair of the Novo Nordisk Foundation, will join the Novo Nordisk Board as an observer, with plans to be nominated for election as a board member in 2026 [5][8]. - The decision for a CEO succession was made jointly by the Novo Nordisk Board and Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen, reflecting the best interests of the company and its shareholders [4][6]. Group 2: Company Performance - Under Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen's leadership over the past eight years, Novo Nordisk's sales, profits, and share price have nearly tripled [3][7]. - The company has established itself as a leader in diabetes care and has diversified into other serious chronic diseases [7][8]. Group 3: Future Outlook - The Novo Nordisk Board remains confident in the company's strategy and business plans despite the leadership changes [6]. - The Novo Nordisk Foundation, which controls 77% of the votes in the company, is actively involved in the governance and strategic direction of Novo Nordisk [12].