Smith and Nephew outlines plans to manage chief executive’s illness

Smith and Nephew has announced that its chief executive officer Olivier Bohuon has been diagnosed with what it describes as a "highly treatable" form of cancer.

Mr Bohuon will begin treatment for the disease later this month, with his chemotherapy set to be completed by late autumn. However, he will continue to be actively involved in running the company throughout this period.

Meanwhile, the firm's board has approved provisional governance procedures to ensure the smooth operation of Smith and Nephew during this time, with chairman Roberto Quarta providing executive oversight if required.

The business will remain dedicated to executing its existing business plan as set out by Mr Bohuon, who will present its financial results for 2015 on February 4th as planned.

Mr Quarta said: "I am confident that Olivier and his team will continue to execute the plan successfully. Our thoughts are with him as he undergoes treatment."

An experienced healthcare sector leader, Mr Bohuon is the former chief executive of Pierre Fabre, while his other previous employers include Abbott Laboratories and GlaxoSmithKline.