Stefano Pessina, born on June 28, 1941, is the Executive Chairman and former Acting CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance. He holds an MBA from the University of Naples and has been deeply involved in the pharmacy field for many years....
Stefano Pessina, born on June 28, 1941, is the Executive Chairman and former Acting CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance. He holds an MBA from the University of Naples and has been deeply involved in the pharmacy field for many years. Under his leadership, Walgreens Boots Alliance has navigated through significant changes, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on its business. Interestingly, in 2021, Pessina chose to forgo all forms of salary, bonus, stock, or options, receiving only a small amount of compensation for limited benefits, which highlights his unique stance on leadership during transitions. Before Walgreens, he was a key figure in the merger of Alliance UniChem and Boots Group, bringing together two major players in healthcare. He's known for his hands-on approach and has an extensive network in the pharmaceutical industry. Pessina has seen the company’s stock value fluctuate significantly over the years, with a notable high of $8.82 billion in late 2019, showing his ability to navigate the market successfully. His focus on performance-based leadership suggests that he values results and aligns with shareholder interests strongly. He’s been a part of the executive team since 2015, shaping the company’s strategy and governance amidst various challenges.