Decisions in the C‑Suite
Former Pfizer CEO Jeff Kindler discusses how he became Chief Executive, what he wishes he had done differently, and explains his role in the passage of the Affordable Care Act. Kindler also discusses the importance of making time for professional development.
Interviewed by Richard Socarides, GLG’s Head of Public Affairs
“While I was leading Pfizer, we worked on the ACA. My hope is that, as Congress and the new administration considers possible changes in the law, they will closely consult with the patient groups, physicians, providers, and other participants in our very complex healthcare system so as to develop solutions that are in the best interests of patients and taxpayers.”
About Jeff Kindler
Jeff Kindler is a healthcare executive, investor, and advisor who held leadership positions at some of the world’s most recognized companies. Currently, Kindler serves in a handful of leadership positions, including CEO of Centrexion Corporation, Executive Chairman of vTv, Venture Partner at Lux Capital, and Managing Director at Starboard Capital Partners. He is also a principal in and advisor to a number of privately held healthcare firms and sponsors. Since 2013, Kindler has served as the Global Chair of the GLG Institute, a community of executives accelerating their careers through mentorship. As Chairman and CEO of Pfizer, the world’s largest research-based biopharmaceutical company, Kindler led the company’s $68 billion merger and acquisition of Wyeth. Before joining Pfizer, Kindler worked at the McDonald’s Corporation as EVP and General Counsel before moving into line management as President of Partner Brands, which included overseeing franchise, operations, and marketing efforts. Previously, Kindler was VP of Litigation and Legal Policy of the General Electric Company. Kindler currently serves on the boards of a number of publicly and privately held healthcare companies as well as several not-for-profit institutions including Tufts University. Kindler graduated summa cum laude from Tufts and magna cum laude from Harvard Law School, where he served as an editor of the Harvard Law Review.
Read more:
10 CEOs Offer Their Best Advice For Turning Mistakes Into Learning Opportunities, Forbes
The New Path to the C-Suite, Harvard Business Review
Obama Signs Health Care Overhaul Bill, With a Flourish, The New York Times
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