David A. Ricks

David A. Ricks (Dave Ricks) is the chair and CEO of Eli Lilly and Company, a global pharmaceutical company. With over 25 years of experience at Lilly, Dave has held various roles in marketing, sales, drug development, and international operations. He assumed the position of CEO in January 2017 and became the chair of the company's board of directors in June 2017.

From 2012 to 2016, Dave served as the president of Lilly Bio-Medicines, leading one of the company's major divisions. Prior to that, he was the president of Lilly USA, the company's largest affiliate, from 2009 to 2012. He also held significant international leadership positions for nearly eight years. Dave was the president and general manager of Lilly China, a rapidly growing emerging market, from 2008 to 2009. He also served as the general manager of Lilly Canada from 2005 to 2008, following roles as director of pharmaceutical marketing and national sales director in the same country. Dave joined Lilly in 1996 as a business development associate and held several management positions in U.S. marketing and sales before transitioning to Lilly Canada.

Dave holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Purdue University, earned in 1990, and a Master of Business Administration degree from Indiana University, earned in 1996.

In addition to his role at Eli Lilly, Dave serves on the board of directors for Adobe and Business Roundtable. He is also a member of the board and former chair of the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America. Dave actively participates in industry organizations, including the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations, where he serves on the CEO Steering Committee. He is also involved in initiatives related to innovation and inclusive growth, such as The Business Council and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office's Council for Inclusive Innovation.

Dave is deeply engaged in the development and well-being of Central Indiana. He serves on the executive committee and board of Central Indiana Corporate Partnership, showcasing his commitment to the local community.

Dave Ricks is an American business executive who currently serves as the chair and CEO of Eli Lilly and Company, a prominent pharmaceutical corporation. He has been with the company for over 20 years, holding various leadership positions in marketing, sales, and international operations.

From 2012 to 2016, Ricks served as the president of Lilly Bio-Medicines, overseeing one of the company's major divisions. Prior to that, he held the position of president of Lilly USA from 2010 to 2012. During his tenure, Ricks also played a crucial role in expanding the company's presence in international markets. He served as the president and general manager of Lilly China from 2008 to 2010, during which he navigated the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly growing emerging market. Before that, Ricks held leadership roles in Lilly Canada, including the position of general manager from 2005 to 2008.

Ricks began his career at Eli Lilly in 1996 as a business development associate. He steadily advanced within the company, assuming management positions in U.S. marketing and sales. Prior to joining Eli Lilly, Ricks worked as an account representative at IBM for three years.

Ricks holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Management from Purdue University, which he earned in 1990. He went on to complete his Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on Marketing and Finance at Indiana University - Kelley School of Business in 1996.

In addition to his role at Eli Lilly, Ricks serves on the board of directors for various organizations, including Adobe and Business Roundtable. He is also a member of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations' CEO Steering Committee and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office's Council for Inclusive Innovation. Ricks actively contributes to the development and well-being of the Central Indiana region, as evidenced by his involvement in the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership.

Throughout his career, Ricks has demonstrated strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of the pharmaceutical industry. His contributions to Eli Lilly and Company have helped drive the company's growth and success in both domestic and international markets.

Dave Ricks, as the chair and CEO of Eli Lilly and Company, has a clear vision for the company's future. He envisions a world where innovative pharmaceutical solutions improve the lives of people around the globe. Ricks understands the profound impact that medicines can have on individuals and communities, and he is committed to driving advancements in healthcare.

One key aspect of Ricks' vision is to continue delivering breakthrough therapies that address some of the world's most pressing health challenges. He recognizes the importance of research and development in discovering new treatments and is dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation within Eli Lilly. Ricks believes that by investing in cutting-edge science and technology, the company can develop transformative medicines that have a meaningful impact on patients' lives.

In addition to advancing medical innovation, Ricks is deeply committed to ensuring access to these life-saving therapies. He believes that healthcare should be accessible and affordable for all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic background. Ricks actively engages in discussions around healthcare policy and collaborates with stakeholders to find sustainable solutions that enable broader access to medicines.

Ricks also emphasizes the importance of diversity, inclusion, and equity within the pharmaceutical industry. He recognizes that embracing different perspectives and experiences leads to better decision-making and ultimately improves patient outcomes. By fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce, Ricks aims to create an environment where every employee feels valued and can contribute their unique talents to drive the company's success.

Furthermore, Ricks envisions Eli Lilly as a responsible corporate citizen that actively contributes to the well-being of communities. He recognizes the importance of corporate social responsibility and encourages initiatives that positively impact society. Ricks strives to make a difference by supporting initiatives focused on health education, environmental sustainability, and community development.