The Darmstadt-based Merck Group, a DAX-listed pharmaceutical and technology conglomerate, has announced a significant leadership transition set for May 2026. Kai Beckmann, currently head of the electronics division, will succeed Belén Garijo as CEO following the expiration of her term. The company confirmed that Beckmann will immediately assume the role of deputy CEO while continuing to lead the Electronics business unit until a successor is found for that position.
Belén Garijo, who has been with Merck for 15 years and served as CEO since 2021, will remain in her position until the end of her term in April 2026 to ensure a seamless transition. During her tenure, Garijo navigated the company through challenging periods including the global pandemic and oversaw strategic acquisitions such as the takeover of US cancer specialist SpringWorks Therapeutics. Despite these achievements, the company's ambitious target of reaching €25 billion in revenue by 2025 remains challenging.
Kai Beckmann's appointment represents the culmination of a long career at Merck, where he has worked since 1989 and has been a member of the executive board since 2011. Before leading the electronics division, which he reoriented toward the semiconductor industry, Beckmann served as Chief Administration Officer. Johannes Baillou, chairman of the board of E. Merck KG, praised Garijo for successfully steering Merck through turbulent years and returning the company to profitable growth, while describing Beckmann as a "highly respected leadership personality from within our own ranks."
The leadership change announcement initially caused some market uncertainty, with Merck shares declining 2.8 percent before stabilizing at a 1.9 percent loss by afternoon trading. The succession decision follows prolonged speculation about who would replace the 65-year-old Garijo, with finance chief Helene von Roeder also considered a leading candidate. The internal promotion of Beckmann signals continuity for the family-owned enterprise as it faces dynamic market conditions and works toward its strategic objectives.
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