In a formal statement, GlaxoSmithKline praises Deirdre Connelly, who was replaced as president of U.S. Pharmaceuticals on Monday by Jack Bailey, another GSK executive.

Bloomberg first reported the change on Monday and followed up by WTW.

GSK’s (NYSE: GSK) statement, issued Monday and provided to WRAL TechWire on Tuesday, noted the change was “effectively immediately” and noted that Connelly “has made the decision to retire after six years in the role.”

The drug giant also reported two other management changes affecting U.S. operations.

Connelly also oversaw GSK operations in Research Triangle Park. She is based at GSK’s large campus in Philadelphia.

 ”During her tenure with GSK, Deirdre has led the US organization through an incredible transformation as we reshaped our commercial model to reflect the changing needs of our customers in the US, as well as our company values.  Deirdre played a major role in stabilizing our US business, establishing GSK’s industry-leading approach to incentivizing sales representatives, and rebuilding trust with our customers.  Above all, she is known for her unwavering commitment to patients,” said Abbas Hussain, president, Global Pharmaceuticals.

Connelly reported to him as part of a management reorganization late last year.

“At the same time, the US marketplace has changed significantly, with an exceedingly competitive payer landscape.  As a result the entire sector is facing new challenges due to pressures on price and access,” Hussain added.

Bailey joined GSK in 209 and served as Senior Vice President, Policy, Payers and Vaccines. He also directed GSK operations in Puerto Rico. 

“Jack brings to the role an extensive knowledge of the US marketplace,” Hussain said. “At GSK, Jack has been credited with successfully managing a rapidly changing healthcare environment, including the implementation of healthcare reform and an increased focus on the value of medicines.  With Jack heading the US business, we feel confident that we have the right experience to steer us through the current environment and deliver our strategy.” 

The other changes:

  • Deborah Waterhouse, a senior vice president and Business Unit Head, US Vaccines has been appointed SVP, US Primary Care.  “In this role she will assume responsibility for GSK’s respiratory and cardiovascular and metabolic disease portfolios, as well as strategic planning and operations for the US business,” GSK noted.
  • Also: Patrick Desbiens, currently senior vice president and General Manager, GSK France, will join the US business as SVP, Vaccines Business Unit.