HP Appoints Emma Walmsley as New CEO, Effective January 4, 2027

Key summary

HP Inc. announced the appointment of Emma Walmsley, former CEO of GSK, as the new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 4, 2027. The board of directors unanimously selected her after a global search for a leader with experience in complex and rapidly changing business environments, a track record of driving transformation in large global organizations, and a history of creating value for customers and shareholders. Walmsley served as CEO of GSK from April 2017 to December 2025 and will continue to serve as an advisor to the GSK board and CEO until September 2026. Prior to GSK, she worked at L'Oréal for 17 years, overseeing the development and management of global consumer goods businesses. HP stated that at GSK, she led a major organizational transformation, and at L'Oréal, she gained experience in translating customer insights into new growth opportunities. HP noted that her perspective is informed by her experience in managing organizations, combined with her seven years on the Microsoft board. She currently serves as a director of Microsoft and on its compensation committee, as well as its environment, social, and public policy committee. HP believes this experience will enable her to bring together HP's businesses, talent, and resources to capitalize on opportunities in the era of the intelligent edge, which is transforming the way people work and live in an increasingly connected world. The CEO position at HP became vacant when Enrique Lores resigned in February 2026 to become CEO of PayPal. The board then appointed Bruce Brand as interim CEO, effective February 2026. On the day Walmsley begins her role, Brand will become Chairman, succeeding Chip Berger, who has served as Chairman since 2017 and as a director since 2015. Berger will remain on the board, and Walmsley will also join the HP board. The board amended its bylaws to increase the number of directors from 12 to 13. Bruce Brand will step down from his interim CEO position on January 3, 2027.