GlaxoSmithKline CEO Andrew Witty receives knighthood

GlaxoSmithKline's chief executive officer (CEO) Andrew Witty has received a knighthood in the New Year's Honours List.

The business leader, who has been in charge of the pharmaceutical company since May 2008, was one of a number of British industry figures to receive titles in the list, such as former Tesco chairman David Reid.

Mr Witty, aged 47, was among the youngest recipients of the knighthood this year, recognising his services to the UK pharmaceutical industry and the British economy as a whole.

Over the course of a career with GlaxoSmithKline spanning more than 25 years, Mr Witty has served in a number of key roles, including senior vice-president for Asia-Pacific and president for Europe.

He has also served in a consulting role to the government and is currently a member of the prime minister's business advisory group.

GlaxoSmithKline experienced underlying sales growth of six percent in the third quarter of 2011 under Mr Witty's leadership, with the CEO stating that the company is meeting its strategic goals.