Dr Paul McKenzie appointed as CSL’s new CEO

Australia’s most valuable manufacturing company CSL has appointed Dr Paul McKenzie as its new CEO replacing Paul Perreault who has been in the role for 10 years.

Perreault navigated the global vaccine and blood products company through the Covid pandemic, as well as further globalising the business.

McKenzie previously served as CSL’s chief operating officer, with his appointment continuing a tradition by the company of appointing its leaders from within.

He previously headed the company’s CSL Seqirus, CSL Vifor and CSL Plasma businesses, leading plasma collections globally to greater than post-pandemic levels.

Prior to joining CSL Dr McKenzie held senior roles at Biogen, Johnson & Johnson, Bristol-Myers Squibb and Merck.

CSL Chair Dr Brian McNamee said: “Paul McKenzie is a patient-focused global leader with a demonstrated track record of leading complex organisations and delivering outstanding business results.

“With his deep understanding of CSL’s strategy, culture and operations, Paul is well positioned to lead CSL to its next level of sustainable growth for our shareholders and the patients we serve around the world.”

McKenzie said he was excited, honoured and humbled for the opportunity to lead the biotechnology and vaccine giant.

He said: “We will continue focusing on executing our 2030 strategy, investing in innovation, and continue achieving sustainable and profitable growth.”

Dr McKenzie will take up the CEO role on 6 March, 2023, with Perreault staying as an adviser until his retirement in September.

Picture: CSL/Dr Paul McKenzie