Sanofi Appoints Manuela Buxo to Lead Specialty Care Division in 2026

Sanofi has named Manuela Buxo as the new Head of Specialty Care, starting March 1, 2026. She replaces Brian Ford, who will leave the company on February 28 after nine years of leadership. The change comes as Sanofi's Specialty Care division reports strong growth, with €14.5 billion in sales for 2025—an 18% increase from the previous year.

Brian Ford joined Sanofi in 2017 and played a key role in expanding the Specialty Care business. Under his leadership, the division launched Dupixent across multiple conditions, including atopic dermatitis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The drug, developed in partnership with Regeneron, now holds around 40% of the biologics market for moderate-to-severe asthma and 35% for atopic dermatitis. Sales have surged, with 60% coming from the US and further growth in Europe and emerging markets like Asia.

Manuela Buxo currently leads Sanofi's Global Immunology Alliance Franchise and has overseen Dupixent's global expansion for more than two years. With over 20 years of international healthcare experience, she brings deep operational knowledge of Sanofi's Specialty Care operations. Olivier Charmeil, Sanofi's designated interim CEO, expressed confidence in her ability to maintain the division's momentum.

Charmeil also thanked Ford for his contributions, highlighting his role in strengthening Sanofi's position in Specialty Care. The company has stressed its commitment to a smooth transition and continued progress in its key therapeutic areas.

Buxo will take over as Head of Specialty Care and join Sanofi's Executive Committee. Her appointment follows a period of significant growth for the division, driven largely by Dupixent's success. The company aims to sustain this trajectory under her leadership.