Core Viewpoint - GSK's CEO Emma Walmsley will step down after nine years due to lack of strong investor support, with Luke Miels set to take over on January 1, 2026 [1][2] Group 1: Leadership Transition - Luke Miels, currently the Chief Commercial Officer, has been with GSK since 2017 and is responsible for the global pharmaceuticals and vaccines business [1] - Miels is seen as a key figure in expanding GSK's drug portfolio, particularly in oncology, which is a focus area for the company [1] - The decision for Miels' appointment was made during succession planning, considering both internal and external candidates [1] Group 2: Performance and Investor Sentiment - During Walmsley's tenure, GSK's stock price has declined by approximately 11% [1] - Following the announcement of Walmsley's departure, GSK's stock rose over 3% in pre-market trading [1] - Investors have expressed concerns regarding GSK's ability to achieve its sales target of over £40 billion (approximately $54 billion) by 2031, particularly in light of new drug development pipeline issues [2] Group 3: Strategic Challenges - Walmsley faced pressure from investors regarding the company's strategic direction, especially after the launch of the RSV vaccine and the spin-off of the consumer health business into Haleon Plc [2] - Despite significant sales growth and a doubling of R&D investment, investor disappointment remains due to weak vaccine sales and inconsistencies in the oncology strategy [2] - GSK is also working to enhance its presence in the U.S. market, committing to invest $30 billion over the next five years [2]