Melissa Seymour to join Lilly as executive vice president of Global Quality

Seymour is recognized as one of the foremost quality leaders in the pharmaceutical industry

Eli Lilly and Company announced that Melissa Seymour will join the company as executive vice president of Global Quality and member of the company's Executive Committee, effective July 22, 2024. Seymour currently serves as the chief quality officer for Bristol Myers Squibb and succeeds Johna Norton, whose retirement after 34 years of service was announced earlier this year.

"As we expand global capacity to meet demand and support pipeline growth, we remain committed to ensuring our medicines are produced to the highest quality standards," said David A. Ricks, Lilly's chair and CEO. "With more than 25 years of experience and a proven track record of leading strategic quality initiatives across product lifecycles, Melissa will further advance our culture of quality, which has been integral to our success in bringing innovative medicines to people around the world."

Seymour is recognized as one of the foremost quality leaders in the pharmaceutical industry. She has held senior leadership roles at global pharmaceutical companies, including Bristol Myers Squibb and Biogen, with extended experience at Novo Nordisk and Glaxo Smith Kline. She has led the development of quality compliance strategies, implemented quality processes and systems, and developed talent to ensure the highest level of quality and compliance in the pharmaceutical industry.

"I am excited to contribute to Lilly's exceptional quality culture, where patient health and safety remain at the forefront of our operations," said Seymour. "With the rapid expansion and promising pipeline at Lilly, maintaining high standards of quality is paramount and I am thrilled to play a role in shaping the company's future."

Seymour holds bachelor's degrees in biological sciences and biochemistry from North Carolina State University and an executive MBA from Duke University. She also has several quality-related certifications from the American Society for Quality, and contributes to the larger industry through participation on nonprofit boards, including the Parenteral Drug Association and other consortiums.

Ricks added, "Johna Norton's positive impact extends to the millions of people who depend on our medicines every day. We are grateful for her years of excellent service and contributions, which will continue to benefit Lilly after her retirement."