Jean-Paul Kress Joins Sanofi's Board: A New Era Begins
Jean-Paul Kress Joins Sanofi's Board
Sanofi is set to enhance its Board of Directors with the appointment of Jean-Paul Kress as an independent director starting from January 1, 2025. This significant change comes as a result of Gilles Schnepp's departure at the end of 2024. Kress's term will coincide with the remainder of Schnepp's office, pending ratification by the shareholders at the upcoming Ordinary Shareholders' Meeting.
Background on Jean-Paul Kress
Jean-Paul Kress, M.D., previously served as the CEO of MorphoSys, where he played a pivotal role until its acquisition by Novartis in 2024. His tenure at MorphoSys was marked by a strong commitment to enhancing the lives of patients battling cancer. He adeptly led the company through its transformational journey into a worldwide biopharmaceutical enterprise focused on innovative cancer therapies. Before MorphoSys, Kress was the CEO of Syntimmune, leading its strategic pivot to late-stage clinical development for autoimmune disorders until its acquisition by Alexion Pharmaceuticals.
His Expertise in the Pharmaceutical Sector
With a wealth of experience, Kress has held prominent leadership positions across several pharmaceutical firms in both the United States and Europe. His qualifications include past tenures as Chairman at ERYTECH Pharma and as a board member at Sarepta Therapeutics. Kress received his medical degree from the prestigious Faculté Necker-Enfants Malades in Paris and completed his Master of Sciences in molecular and cellular pharmacology at Ecole normale supérieure (Ulm) in Paris.
Welcome Remarks from the Chairman
Frédéric Oudéa, Chairman of the Board, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for Gilles Schnepp’s contributions during his tenure, especially in enhancing the company's governance in 2023. Oudéa noted, "The Board is thrilled to welcome Jean-Paul Kress as our newest director. His impressive experience spanning over three decades in the pharmaceutical industry will bring invaluable insights as we navigate the ongoing strategic evolution in the biopharmaceutical arena."
Board Committee Developments
In connection with reorganizing the Board's Committees, Patrick Kron will assume the role of Chairman for the Appointments, Governance, and CSR Committee. In addition, Kress will actively participate in both the Strategy Committee and the Scientific Committee, indicating his integral role in shaping Sanofi’s strategic direction.
About Sanofi's Commitment to Innovation
Sanofi is recognized as an innovative global healthcare leader, driven by the mission to explore the miracles of science that improve lives. With a dedicated team worldwide, Sanofi transforms the practice of medicine through innovative treatment options and vaccine solutions. Sustainability and social responsibility lies at the heart of Sanofi’s initiatives, ensuring a broader impact beyond healthcare.
Contact Information
For media inquiries, please reach out to:
Sandrine Guendoul | + 33 6 25 09 14 25 | sandrine.guendoul@sanofi.com
Evan Berland | +1 215 432 0234 | evan.berland@sanofi.com
Nicolas Obrist | + 33 6 77 21 27 55 | nicolas.obrist@sanofi.com
Investor Relations:
Thomas Kudsk Larsen | + 44 7545 513 693 | thomas.larsen@sanofi.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Jean-Paul Kress?
Jean-Paul Kress is a medical doctor and former CEO of MorphoSys, joining Sanofi's Board of Directors in 2025.
What is Sanofi's mission?
Sanofi focuses on the miracles of science to improve lives and provides groundbreaking treatment options globally.
What changes are happening in Sanofi's Board?
Jean-Paul Kress will replace Gilles Schnepp on the Board, participating in committees for strategy and scientific guidance.
How long has Kress worked in the pharmaceutical industry?
Kress has over 30 years of experience in various leadership roles in the pharmaceutical sector.
What committees will Kress be part of?
Kress will join the Strategy Committee and the Scientific Committee of Sanofi.
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