Former GSK chief Emma Walmsley will lead HP from January 2027, bringing extensive experience in corporate transformation as the technology company pursues AI-driven growth opportunities.
HP Inc. has announced the appointment of Emma Walmsley as its next Chief Executive Officer, effective 4 January 2027. The decision, unanimously approved by the company’s Board of Directors, marks a significant leadership transition as HP prepares for its next phase of growth in an increasingly AI-driven technology market.
Walmsley, who previously led global pharmaceutical company GSK, will succeed Bruce Broussard, who has served as HP’s interim CEO since February 2026. Broussard will become Chair of the Board on the same date, replacing Chip Bergh, who has held the position since 2017.
Extensive Experience in Global Business Transformation
Walmsley served as CEO of GSK from April 2017 to December 2025, overseeing a major transformation of the company’s operations and strategic direction.
During her tenure, she strengthened GSK’s focus on specialty medicines and vaccines, expanded research and development efforts, and led the separation of its consumer healthcare business into Haleon.
Before becoming GSK’s chief executive, Walmsley held leadership positions within the company’s consumer healthcare division. She previously spent 17 years at L’Oréal, managing international consumer businesses across several markets.
She has also served on Microsoft’s Board of Directors for seven years, providing experience in technology governance alongside her executive leadership background.
HP Focuses on AI and Future Growth
Walmsley’s appointment comes as HP navigates changing demand in the personal computing industry, rising component costs and the growing importance of artificial intelligence in workplace technology.
Bruce Broussard, HP’s interim CEO, described Walmsley as an experienced leader capable of guiding large organisations through significant change.
In her statement following the appointment, Walmsley expressed enthusiasm about joining HP and outlined her intention to build on the company’s technological strengths.
She emphasised the importance of using AI, innovation and organisational capabilities to identify new growth opportunities and create long-term value for customers, employees, partners and shareholders.
Leadership Transition Scheduled for January 2027
HP’s Board Chair, Chip Bergh, said Walmsley was selected following a comprehensive global search focused on the leadership capabilities required for the company’s next chapter.
Bergh highlighted her experience across multiple industries, strategic decision-making and ability to lead organisational transformation.
As part of the transition, Broussard will assume the role of Board Chair on 4 January 2027, providing continuity during Walmsley’s initial period as chief executive.
The appointment places an experienced international business leader at the helm of HP as the company works to strengthen its position in AI-enabled computing and the evolving future of work.
Walmsley’s ability to translate her experience in corporate transformation into technology-sector growth will be an important aspect of HP’s next leadership chapter.
Sources: Reuters; HP Inc.
