Lonza Names New CEO

Lonza announced on Jan. 30, 2019 that Richard Ridinger, CEO, will retire from the company after seven years; Marc Funk, currently chief operating officer of the Pharma & Biotech division will succeed Ridinger as CEO effective March 2, 2019. Ridinger will remain with the company until the end of April and will be available in an advisory capacity until the end of 2019.

“Richard’s achievement at Lonza's main site in Visp (CH) deserves special mention. He took over a site with uncertain prospects and developed it into a pioneering industrial performance center. I look forward to working with him and Marc to ensure a seamless transition of leadership and wish Richard all the best for the future,” said Albert M. Baehny, chairman of Lonza’s board of directors in a statement announcing the change.

“I congratulate Marc Funk on his appointment. Since 2014, he has led Lonza’s fastest-growing division and built it to become the CDMO partner of choice for pharma and biologics companies. This experience has prepared him very well for his new role as chief executive officer,” the Chairman said. “The Board is delighted to have a strong internal successor to lead the company in the exciting years ahead.”

“Lonza has only been able to achieve its strategic, operational, and financial objectives through the close cooperation of all stakeholders. I would like to express my personal appreciation to all the colleagues, customers, and partners around the world for their valued contributions to Lonza’s success,” said Ridinger in the statement.

Source: Lonza