Dec 10, 2018 - Health

Gilead taps Roche pharma exec as new CEO

Gilead Sciences logo on a cell phone screen.

Gilead is known for making hepatitis C and HIV medicines. Photo: Igor Golovniov/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

Gilead Sciences has named Daniel O'Day, the chief of Roche's pharmaceuticals unit, as its new CEO, effective March 1.

Why it matters: Gilead is one of the largest and most profitable drug manufacturers on the planet, known for its hepatitis C and HIV medicines. O'Day will lead a company that has had falling sales of its hepatitis drugs and is investing more in new, expensive gene therapies.

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