GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), based in the United Kingdom, is one of the world’s foremost pharmaceutical and healthcare companies. Established in 2000 through the merger of Glaxo Wellcome and SmithKline Beecham, GSK has since played a vital role in the global health landscape, focusing on three core areas: pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and consumer healthcare products. GSK's innovative approach is driven by science, research, and its commitment to improving the quality of life for people around the world.
As a leader in the development of vaccines and life-saving drugs, GSK is dedicated to addressing pressing healthcare challenges, such as respiratory diseases, HIV, cancer, and immune system disorders. The company operates in over 100 countries, with extensive research and development (R&D) facilities and a commitment to making medicines affordable and accessible globally.
CEO and Founder of GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)
While GSK as a brand was officially formed in 2000, its history stretches back more than a century. Glaxo was originally founded as a baby food company in New Zealand in the early 1900s, while SmithKline was established as a pharmaceutical firm in the 19th century. The modern GSK was born out of the merger of these two industry giants, Glaxo Wellcome and SmithKline Beecham, creating one of the largest healthcare companies in the world.
The current CEO of GSK is Emma Walmsley, who took the role in 2017. She is the first woman to lead a major global pharmaceutical company. Under her leadership, GSK has focused on streamlining its operations, including splitting its consumer healthcare division and pharmaceutical business into two separate entities in 2022, aiming to boost innovation and specialization in each sector.
List of Top Companies Under GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)
Over the years, GSK has acquired or established partnerships with several other companies, strengthening its portfolio in pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and consumer healthcare. Below is a list of key companies and divisions under GSK, along with their valuations and industry contributions.
| Company Name | Year Acquired/Founded | Valuation | Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| GSK Vaccines | 2014 (Enhanced) | $50 Billion | Vaccines Development |
| ViiV Healthcare | 2009 (Established by GSK, Pfizer, and Shionogi) | $15 Billion | HIV Pharmaceuticals |
| Consumer Healthcare (Haleon) | 2022 (Spin-off) | $33 Billion | Consumer Health Products |
| Stiefel Laboratories | 2009 (Acquired) | $3.6 Billion | Dermatological Treatments |
| Tesaro | 2019 (Acquired) | $5.1 Billion | Oncology Pharmaceuticals |
| Human Genome Sciences | 2012 (Acquired) | $3 Billion | Biopharmaceuticals |
| Sirtris Pharmaceuticals | 2008 (Acquired) | $720 Million | Biotechnology |
FAQs About GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)
Q1: When was GSK founded and how?
A: GSK was founded in 2000 through the merger of two pharmaceutical giants: Glaxo Wellcome and SmithKline Beecham. Its origins, however, date back to the 19th century.
Q2: Who is the current CEO of GSK?
A: Emma Walmsley is the current CEO of GSK, taking over the role in 2017. She is the first woman to lead a major global pharmaceutical company.
Q3: What are the major areas of focus for GSK?
A: GSK focuses on three main areas: pharmaceuticals (including drugs for respiratory diseases, cancer, and HIV), vaccines (for diseases like malaria, shingles, and influenza), and consumer healthcare (over-the-counter products like pain relief and oral care).
Q4: What is ViiV Healthcare?
A: ViiV Healthcare is a global specialist company established by GSK in partnership with Pfizer and Shionogi, focusing on the development of innovative treatments for HIV.
Q5: Has GSK undergone any major restructuring recently?
A: Yes, in 2022, GSK spun off its consumer healthcare division into a separate company named Haleon, allowing GSK to focus more on pharmaceuticals and vaccines.
