Sanofi appoints Manuela Buxo to lead Specialty Care in 2026 transition

Sanofi has named Manuela Buxo as the new Head of Specialty Care, starting March 1, 2026. She will take over from Brian Foard, who is leaving the company after nearly a decade in senior leadership roles. The transition comes as Sanofi continues to expand its presence in immunology and inflammation treatments.

Brian Foard joined Sanofi in 2017 and most recently led the Specialty Care Global Business Unit while serving on the Executive Committee. Under his leadership, the company strengthened its position with key product launches, most notably Dupixent. Developed with Regeneron, Dupixent became Sanofi's top-selling product, generating over €13 billion in 2025 alone. The drug now accounts for around 30% of Specialty Care revenue and has expanded into multiple indications, including COPD (approved in 2024 in the US and EU), prurigo nodularis (2022 US, 2024 EU), and pediatric eosinophilic esophagitis (2024 US). It is also available in over 90 countries, including China and Japan.

Manuela Buxo currently leads Sanofi's Global Immunology Alliance Franchise and has driven Dupixent's global growth for more than two years. With over 20 years of international healthcare experience, she brings deep operational knowledge of the Specialty Care business. In her new role, she will oversee the Global Business Unit and join the Executive Committee.

Olivier Charmeil, Sanofi's interim CEO, thanked Brian Foard for his contributions and expressed confidence in Buxo's ability to maintain strong continuity. The company has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing Specialty Care priorities during the transition.

The leadership change takes effect on February 28, 2026, when Foard departs. Buxo's appointment ensures ongoing focus on Sanofi's Specialty Care strategy, particularly in immunology and inflammation. Dupixent remains a cornerstone of the business, with continued expansion expected in new markets and indications.