Emma Walmsley to Become HP's New CEO in 2027

As HP prepares for a new beginning, it has officially announced the appointment of Emma Walmsley as its next CEO, effective January 4, 2027. After a thorough nine-month search, Walmsley will succeed interim CEO Bruce Broussard, who stepped in following Enrique Lores' departure to lead PayPal.

Walmsley's Impressive Background

Walmsley, who previously held the position of CEO at GSK, is known for her strategic abilities and leadership style that embraces direct engagement rather than conformity. During her time at GSK, she successfully turned the company’s finances around and spun off its consumer healthcare division into a separate entity called Haleon.

Her leadership style is marked by a preference for constructive confrontation, making her a fitting choice for HP, which is in need of revitalization amidst declining revenue from printing and rising costs in the PC market due to increased demand for AI components.

Transitioning Leadership at HP

Broussard, who took the helm on an interim basis in February, will transition to the role of chair on HP’s board, succeeding Chip Bergh, who will remain a board member. This leadership shift occurs during challenging times for HP, necessitating significant changes to align with evolving technological landscapes.

Expertise and Vision for HP's Future

Emma Walmsley's extensive professional background includes nearly 16 years at GSK, over eight of which she served as CEO, as well as a 17-year tenure at L’Oréal. Although her experience on Microsoft's board for seven years provides her insight into the tech sector, this new role at HP marks her first direct leadership position in technology.

Broussard highlighted Walmsley’s impressive leadership credentials during the announcement, noting her ability to drive organizations through transformation and her strategic acumen. He emphasized the urgent need for a leader capable of harnessing HP's innovative legacy to shape a forward-thinking vision for the company.

Commitment to Innovation and People-First Leadership

In a post on LinkedIn, Walmsley expressed her enthusiasm for joining HP, emphasizing the company’s rich history of innovation and the significant role that AI will play in its future. She stated, "HP has an extraordinary innovation heritage, an inspiring purpose, and an incredible opportunity ahead as AI reshapes technology and what customers need from it."

Walmsley's focus on a people-centric approach is also resonant with her vision for HP. She believes that behind every innovation are the individuals dedicated to improving customer experiences and productivity. She remarked, “In an age of AI, I believe human leadership has never mattered more. It’s a privilege to be joining this team.”

With such a strong foundation in leadership and a clear vision ahead, Walmsley is poised to lead HP into its next chapter, optimizing the company’s adaptability to changing market demands and technological advancements.