A Cand.polit. degree from the University of Copenhagen earned in 1987 provided the foundation for Kåre Schultz’s career as a businessperson and economist. Since beginning his professional path in 1989, he has navigated executive roles across major pharmaceutical organizations, culminating in significant leadership positions in the Kingdom of Denmark and beyond.
Early Career and Novo Nordisk
Schultz began his professional life as a consultant for Andersen Consulting in London and McKinsey & Company in Copenhagen. In 1989, he joined Novo Nordisk, where he remained for over two decades. He advanced to executive vice president of staff and quality in 2000, transitioned to chief operating officer in 2002, and served as president and vice CEO by 2015.
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In April 2015, Schultz departed Novo Nordisk to assume the role of CEO at Lundbeck. Beyond his primary executive appointments, he maintained active involvement in corporate governance. He joined the board of directors at Lego in 2007 and served as chairman of Royal Unibrew from 2010 through December 2017.
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Leadership
Schultz became the chief executive officer of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries in September 2017. He took command shortly after a court ruling allowed generic competition to enter the market for Copaxone, the firm's primary product. By November 2017, he implemented a structural reorganization of the business that included 1,700 staff layoffs. In 2018, his total remuneration reached US$32.5 million. In July 2019, his administration halted the production of Vincristine, a medication utilized for childhood cancer treatments, prompting public criticism regarding global supply shortages. He concluded his tenure at Teva in December 2022.
Fast facts
- Born: 1961
- Nationality: Kingdom of Denmark
- Education: University of Copenhagen
- Primary Employer: Novo Nordisk (1989-2015)
- CEO of Lundbeck: 2015-2017
- CEO of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries: 2017-2022
- Lego board member: Since 2007
- Spouse: Marianne Schultz
Questions readers ask
What is Kåre Schultz's educational background?
He earned a Cand.polit. degree from the University of Copenhagen in 1987.
Which pharmaceutical companies has he led as CEO?
He served as CEO of Lundbeck and Teva Pharmaceutical Industries.
Achievements
- Affiliated with Novo Nordisk, Lundbeck and Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
- Educated at University of Copenhagen
