Novartis Announces New Chief Legal and Compliance Officer: Karen Hale Takes Over from Klaus Moosmayer
Basel, Switzerland, March 31, 2025 – Novartis, a leading global healthcare company, announced today significant changes to its Chief Legal and Compliance structure. Effective April 14, 2025, Karen Hale will assume an expanded role as the Chief Legal and Compliance Officer, reporting to Vas Narasimhan, M.D., CEO of Novartis, and continuing her membership in the Executive Committee of Novartis (ECN).
Klaus Moosmayer, currently the Chief Ethics, Risk & Compliance Officer of Novartis, has decided to leave the company and step down from the ECN to pursue new opportunities outside Novartis. The Ethics Risk & Compliance (ERC) function will now report to Karen Hale.
Karen Hale’s Professional Background
Karen Hale joined Novartis in May 2021, bringing nearly 30 years of experience in resolving legal and compliance issues within the global pharmaceutical industry. Before joining Novartis, she held various senior roles at AbbVie, including vice president, deputy general counsel, and chief ethics and compliance officer.
Klaus Moosmayer’s Legacy
Moosmayer, who joined Novartis in 2018, expressed his sense of pride in the accomplishments of the ERC team in strengthening Novartis’ reputation and building a holistic integrated assurance system. Vas Narasimhan, CEO of Novartis, acknowledged Moosmayer’s significant contributions, stating, “The impact he has had on our company, our people, and our reputation will be long-lasting.”
Impact on Stakeholders
For patients, investors, and other stakeholders, this change may bring some uncertainty. However, the continuity of the ERC function under Karen Hale’s leadership could help maintain the current level of ethics, risk management, and compliance. Novartis emphasizes its commitment to these areas, with Vas Narasimhan expressing confidence that Karen will continue the strong commitment and rigor.
Global Implications
- Regulatory Compliance: Novartis’ commitment to regulatory compliance remains a priority, especially in light of ongoing global efforts to improve transparency and address healthcare cost containment.
- Ethics and Integrity: The appointment of Karen Hale to the expanded role could help maintain and strengthen Novartis’ reputation for ethical business practices and integrity.
- Innovation and Growth: With the legal and compliance functions aligned, Novartis may be better positioned to focus on innovation and growth, especially in areas like gene therapy, cell and gene editing, and digital health.
Conclusion
The appointment of Karen Hale as Novartis’ new Chief Legal and Compliance Officer signifies a continuation of the company’s commitment to ethics, risk management, and compliance. Klaus Moosmayer’s departure leaves a significant legacy, and the transition to Karen Hale’s leadership could help maintain stability while fostering growth and innovation in the pharmaceutical industry.
As a stakeholder, this change may bring some uncertainty, but the continuity of the ERC function under Karen Hale’s leadership could help maintain the current level of ethics, risk management, and compliance. Novartis remains committed to its mission of delivering innovative medicines and addressing the needs of patients worldwide.
