Novo Nordisk Appoints New CEO and Reduces 2025 Sales Guidance

Novo Nordisk has appointed Maziar Mike Doustdar as its new CEO, effective August 7, 2025, succeeding Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen, who is stepping down after a period of leadership and company challenges13.

This leadership transition occurs as Novo Nordisk faces increased competitive pressure in the global obesity drug market, notably from Eli Lilly1.

Novo Nordisk has revised its 2025 financial growth guidance downward—now expecting sales to grow 8% to 14%* (down from a previous 13% to 21%) and operating profit to grow *10% to 16% (vs. previous 16% to 24%)1.

Despite outperforming profit expectations and seeing significant sales increases in diabetes and obesity treatments, recent clinical trial results and fierce competition have pressured the company's market outlook2.

Mike Doustdar has a strong track record at Novo Nordisk, credited with doubling sales in International Operations in the last decade, and is seen by the board as the right leader to navigate rapid market changes3.

Sources:

1. https://www.statnews.com/2025/07/29/novo-nordisk-maziar-mike-doustdar-ceo-growth-outlook/

2. https://www.euronews.com/business/2025/05/07/novo-nordisk-cuts-guidance-as-weight-loss-drug-market-competition-grows

3. https://www.novonordisk.com/content/nncorp/global/en/news-and-media/news-and-ir-materials/news-details.html?id=916408