GlaxoSmithKline Picks new CEO

LONDON GlaxoSmithKline PLC has selected the president and chief executive officer of its European pharmaceuticals division, the company announced Monday.

Andrew Witty, one of three internal candidates, was chosen to succeed Jean-Pierre Garnier as the pharmaceutical company’s chief executive officer in Europe.

“Andrew’s appointment follows a rigorous selection process by the board of directors,” said board chairman Sir Christopher Gent. “The Board is confident that Andrew will build on [Garnier]’s considerable achievements which have positioned GSK as a leader of the pharmaceutical industry.”

Witty, 43, joined the company in 1985 and has held his current position since 2003. He will become chief executive officer in May 2008.