GlaxoSmithKline appoints non-executive directors

GlaxoSmithKline has announced the appointment of Lynn Elsenhans and Jing Ulrich as non-executive directors as it aims to strengthen its corporate management structure.

Ms Elsenhans – a long-time Royal Dutch Shell veteran and the former chair, president and chief executive officer of Sunoco – will join the board with effect from July 1st 2012, as will Ms Ulrich, who is JP Morgan's managing director and chairman of global markets for China.

The changes are being made to ensure GlaxoSmithKline's board membership is continually refreshed, offering the necessary leadership for growth.

Meanwhile, Sir Deryck Maughan will also join the company's remuneration committee on the same date.

Sir Christopher Gent, chairman of GlaxoSmithKline, said: "Today's announcement also reflects the board's priority of appointing candidates who have deep knowledge of emerging markets or experience of running global companies."

Earlier this month, the company announced a new collaboration with Yale University, which will see the organisations allying to study a new class of medicines.