The Journal. Ozempic Is a Hit. So Why Is the Drugmaker’s CEO Out?
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May 21, 2025 
In this insightful discussion, Peter Loftus, a reporter with the Wall Street Journal, unpacks the surprising ousting of Novo Nordisk's CEO, Lars Jorgensen, amid Ozempic's skyrocketing success. He explores the unique nonprofit structure of Novo Nordisk and how it affects corporate governance. The conversation also delves into the fierce rivalry with Eli Lilly, revealing how the market landscape for anti-obesity drugs has evolved, and the implications of recent clinical trial setbacks on investor confidence.
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Ozempic's Rare Success
- Ozempic is one of the most successful drugs ever from both financial and cultural perspectives.
- It has had a rare impact spanning blockbuster sales and wide public recognition.
Unique Danish Corporate Structure
- Novo Nordisk operates under a nonprofit foundation controlling its profits and strategy.
- This Danish structure aims to balance capitalism with public benefit, reinvesting in research.
Lars Jurgensen’s CEO Journey
- Lars Jurgensen, CEO since 2017, grew up within Novo Nordisk, starting as a health economist.
- His eight-year tenure saw the company’s stock price increase about 600%, reflecting spectacular growth.