Royal Philips, a global leader in health technology, made a significant announcement on February 28, 2024, unveiling its proposal to appoint Charlotte Hanneman as a member of the Board of Management. If accepted, Hanneman will assume the pivotal role of Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective October 1, 2024. The proposal is set to be presented to the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (AGM) scheduled for May 7, 2024.
Hanneman brings to Philips a wealth of experience garnered over two decades in the MedTech and pharmaceutical industries. Her most recent position as controller and head of financial planning & analysis at Stryker, a global medical technology company, has seen her play a crucial role in financial control, enterprise financial planning and analysis, and business development finance. Additionally, she oversaw indirect procurement and directly managed finance teams across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, as well as Canada and Latin America.
Her international finance leadership roles at Stryker, alongside tenures at renowned healthcare companies such as Merck, Schering-Plough, and Organon, showcase her versatility and deep industry expertise. Hanneman's extensive exposure to the U.S., coupled with her residence in various countries across Asia and Europe, enhances her global perspective.
Holding a master's degree in economics and an executive master of finance and control from Maastricht University, the Netherlands, Hanneman's academic background aligns seamlessly with the demands of her future role at Philips.
As Royal Philips prepares for this strategic transition, current CEO Roy Jakobs expressed gratitude to Abhijit Bhattacharya, the outgoing CFO, for his substantial contribution to the company's transformation into a health technology powerhouse. Bhattacharya, with a remarkable 37-year career at Philips, will continue in his role until the end of September, ensuring a smooth handover to Hanneman.
Jakobs is optimistic about the arrival of Hanneman, highlighting her MedTech and pharmaceutical knowledge across continents, paired with extensive finance experience. He believes her energy and passion for the healthcare industry make her an ideal fit for the CFO role during this exciting phase for Philips.
Feike Sijbesma, Chairman of Philips' Supervisory Board, emphasized the significance of broadening the diversity of the Board of Management. Sijbesma expressed gratitude to Bhattacharya and welcomed Hanneman, praising her industry expertise that aligns with the company's strategic goals.
In response, Hanneman expressed her enthusiasm for joining Philips, commending the company's global reach, market leadership positions, and commitment to patient-and people-focused innovation. She looks forward to contributing to the company's journey to create sustainable impact in healthcare.
As the news unfolds, the transition from Bhattacharya to Hanneman marks a pivotal moment in Philips' evolution, reinforcing its commitment to shaping the future of health technology with experienced and diverse leadership.
