Merck KGaA Appoints Kai Beckmann as New CEO, Succeeding Belén Garijo

Recently, Merck officially announced the appointment of a new CEO. The announcement stated:Appointment of Kai Beckmann as the Incoming Chairman of the Executive Board and Chief Executive Officer of Merck Group`, he will officially succeed Belén Garijo on May 1, 2026.`

To ensure a smooth transition, Carsten Gericke will continue in his current role until the end of his term. Meanwhile, Kai Beckmann has assumed the position of Deputy CEO of Merck Group effective immediately and will continue to serve concurrently as CEO of the Electronics business sector until a successor is in place.

Geli He has深耕ed at Merck Group for 15 years, overseeing the healthcare business for six years and being promoted to Chairman of the Executive Board and CEO of the group in 2021. Her key achievements during her tenure include: leading the group through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical issues, achieving sustainable development through organic growth and strategic portfolio adjustments (such as acquiring SpringWorks and divesting Merck Surface Solutions), and building a high-performance organization. During her previous tenure in the healthcare business, sheLed the breakthrough layout in the Chinese market, driving the global launch of Mavenclad for multiple sclerosis, completing three divestment transactions to optimize the business structure, and laying the foundation for long-term growth. After stepping down, Belén Garijo will continue to focus on the healthcare sector, committing herself to meeting patient needs — a field that is both her expertise and passion.

Johannes Baillou, Chairman of the Executive Board and Family Board of Merck, stated: "Belén Garijo has demonstrated exceptional leadership during a transformative period, steering Merck back to profitability, shaping the company into a global technology pioneer, and fostering a future-oriented, high-impact culture. She has strengthened Merck's competitiveness in the life sciences, healthcare, and electronics sectors, demonstrating resilience in the face of challenges and laying a solid foundation for Merck’s continued success."

Bai Youhan also stated: "As a leader who deeply understands the local market and global business, Bi Kangming's transformation experience will be key to opening a new chapter for the group. His vision for technological change will create profound value for patients, customers, and society. The long-standing collaboration and trust established between Ge Lihé and Bi Kangming will ensure a smooth transition and the normal operation of the company."

Since 2011, Kai Beckmann has been a member of the Executive Board of Merck Group and has been responsible for the High Performance Materials business since 2017. Under his leadership, this business has been fully transformed into Electronics Technology, becoming a core enabler in the global semiconductor industry. Kai Beckmann has served as Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of the Executive Board, overseeing human resources and information technology, and managing the group's headquarters and the largest plant in Darmstadt. Kai Beckmann joined Merck Group in 1989, serving as Managing Director in Singapore and Malaysia, and later as the Group's Chief Information Officer (CIO), among other positions.

In addition to his role at Merck Group, Bi Kangming also serves as the Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the German Federal Printing Group and the Confederation of German Employers' Associations (BDA) Vice Chairman. From 2017 to 2024, he was at the helm of the German Chemical Employers' Association (BAVC).