J&J Taps Bayer Exec to Run its Ailing Consumer Group

Drug giant Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) tapped Bayer executive Sandra Peterson to run its struggling consumer group and two other divisions.

The move marks the first big executive decision made by CEO Alex Gorsky since he took the helm earlier this year.

Peterson will watch over the consumer group, which has been plagued by recalls accounting for hundreds of thousands of bottles of Tylenol and other over-the-counter drugs, as well as information technology and global supply chain.

“She brings 25 years of experience to her new role, which will draw on her expertise in building fully integrated global businesses, and focusing on growth,” Gorsky said.

Peterson has served as CEO of Bayer CropScience AG, based in Europe, since 2010. Previously she was CEO of Bayer Medical Care and president of Bayer HealthCare AG’s Diabetes Care Division.

More On This...

Pall Shares Edging Higher as Investors Applaud Strong 4Q Earnings

Pier 1 Imports Enjoys 58% Rise in 2Q Net, Hikes Full-Year View

Prior to her time at Bayer she served five years in leadership roles as Medco Health Solutions and previously led global research and development, procurement and regulatory affairs at Nabisco.

Currently residing in Germany, Peterson will be moving to J&J’s headquarters in New Brunswick, N.J.