Novo Nordisk, headquartered in Denmark, is a global healthcare company that has been at the forefront of diabetes care for nearly a century. Founded in 1923, Novo Nordisk’s primary mission is to improve the lives of people with diabetes, but it also focuses on other serious chronic conditions such as obesity, hemophilia, and growth disorders. The company’s commitment to research, innovation, and patient-centered care has made it a leader in the biopharmaceutical industry.
With over 50,000 employees across 80 countries, Novo Nordisk reaches more than 170 countries with its life-saving medicines and healthcare products. It is renowned for its extensive pipeline of diabetes treatments, including its breakthrough insulin products. Novo Nordisk’s sustainability initiatives, which focus on reducing environmental impact and increasing global access to healthcare, further highlight the company’s dedication to creating a healthier world.
CEO and Founder of Novo Nordisk
Novo Nordisk was formed through the merger of two Danish companies: Nordisk Insulinlaboratorium, founded by August Krogh and Marie Krogh in 1923, and Novo Terapeutisk Laboratorium, founded by Thorvald Pedersen and Harald Pedersen in 1925. These two companies merged in 1989 to create Novo Nordisk. Today, the company is led by CEO Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen, who took over the reins in 2017. Under his leadership, Novo Nordisk has strengthened its position in diabetes care while expanding its presence in other therapeutic areas, including obesity and rare diseases. Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen’s vision for the company focuses on long-term sustainability, global healthcare solutions, and cutting-edge research.
List of Top Companies Under Novo Nordisk
Novo Nordisk has expanded its operations through strategic acquisitions and partnerships, enhancing its product portfolio and global reach. Below is a list of top subsidiaries and acquisitions under Novo Nordisk, along with their valuations and industry focus:
| Company Name | Year Acquired/Founded | Valuation | Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| NNIT (Novo Nordisk IT) | 1994 | $600 Million | IT and Consulting Services |
| Ziylo | 2018 (Acquired) | $800 Million | Diabetes Treatment (Glucose Control) |
| Corvidia Therapeutics | 2020 (Acquired) | $2.1 Billion | Cardiovascular Disease Therapy |
| Dicerna Pharmaceuticals | 2021 (Acquired) | $3.3 Billion | RNAi Therapeutics |
| Emisphere Technologies | 2020 (Acquired) | $1.8 Billion | Drug Delivery Technology |
| Novo Nordisk Pharmatech | 1949 (Founded) | Part of Novo Nordisk | Pharmaceutical Ingredients |
| Biocorp | 2023 (Acquired) | $154 Million | Smart Medical Devices |
FAQs About Novo Nordisk
Q1: When was Novo Nordisk founded?
A: Novo Nordisk was formed in 1989 through the merger of two companies: Nordisk Insulinlaboratorium (founded in 1923) and Novo Terapeutisk Laboratorium (founded in 1925).
Q2: Who is the current CEO of Novo Nordisk?
A: Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen has been the CEO of Novo Nordisk since 2017.
Q3: What are Novo Nordisk’s main areas of focus?
A: Novo Nordisk primarily focuses on diabetes care, but it also addresses obesity, hemophilia, growth disorders, and other chronic conditions.
Q4: What is Novo Nordisk’s most valuable acquisition?
A: One of Novo Nordisk's most valuable acquisitions is Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, which was acquired in 2021 for $3.3 billion, enhancing the company's capabilities in RNAi-based therapies.
Q5: How is Novo Nordisk contributing to sustainability?
A: Novo Nordisk has made sustainability a core part of its mission by reducing its carbon footprint, aiming for zero environmental impact by 2030, and expanding access to affordable insulin worldwide.
Q6: What role does Novo Nordisk play in diabetes care?
A: Novo Nordisk is a global leader in diabetes care, with innovative products such as long-acting insulins, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and cutting-edge glucose monitoring technologies.
