Sir Andrew Witty, a distinguished figure in the fields of healthcare and business, has made significant contributions to both his professional domain and society as a whole. Known for his visionary leadership and relentless pursuit of innovation, Witty has carved a remarkable path throughout his personal and professional life.
Born with a passion for transforming lives, Witty embarked on his journey in the healthcare industry with GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) in 1985. Over the years, he demonstrated a passionate commitment, steadily ascending the ranks to become the CEO and a director of GSK in 2008. During his tenure, Witty propelled GSK to new heights, revolutionizing the pharmaceutical landscape with a focus on developing life-saving medicines and vaccines. Under his leadership, GSK became a beacon of hope, leveraging its resources and expertise to tackle global health challenges.
Witty’s illustrious career didn't stop at GSK. In February 2021, he assumed the role of chief executive officer of UnitedHealth Group, one of the world's largest healthcare companies. Tasked with steering the organization's strategic direction and long-term growth agenda, Witty showcases his visionary acumen and business prowess. As a member of the UnitedHealth Group Board of Directors, he brings his wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to drive transformative change in the healthcare landscape.
Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Witty has always been a champion of education and research. His role as the former chancellor of the University of Nottingham, a leading British research institution, highlights his commitment to fostering intellectual growth and nurturing the next generation of leaders. Additionally, serving on the Singapore Prime Minister's Research, Innovation, and Enterprise Council demonstrates his dedication to promoting global collaboration and driving advancements in science and technology.
Witty’s passion for addressing pressing global challenges came to the forefront during his tenure as a special envoy at the World Health Organization (WHO). From April to December 2020, he co-led efforts to accelerate responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. His unpaid leave exemplified his selflessness and unwavering dedication to public service, as he played a pivotal role in coordinating international efforts and shaping strategies to combat the pandemic's devastating impact.
In recognition of his remarkable contributions, Witty was knighted in 2012 for his services to the U.K. economy. Singapore also bestowed him with honorary citizenship in 2017, acknowledging his instrumental role in the country's growth and development. Furthermore, Witty's honorary degrees from esteemed universities such as Exeter, Manchester, and Nottingham reflect his outstanding contributions to academia and his commitment to advancing knowledge and learning.
Witty’s unwavering commitment to addressing global challenges, both within the pharmaceutical industry and on the global stage, sets an example for aspiring leaders and serves as a beacon of hope for a better and healthier future for all.