Lilly’s chief executive returns from medical leave

Lilly has announced that Dr John Lechleiter has resumed the position of chairman, president and chief executive officer following a period of medical leave.

Dr Lechleiter underwent surgery for a dilated aorta on May 13th 2013, with the procedure proving successful, meaning he has now been cleared by both his personal doctor and the company's employee health services physician to return to full-time work.

Lilly's executive vice-president for global services and chief financial officer Derica Rice served as acting chief executive in Dr Lechleiter's absence, while lead independent director Ellen Marram filled in as acting chair of the board.

Dr Lechleiter thanked Mr Rice and Ms Marram for taking over from him on an interim basis, while also acknowledging the support he has received from Lilly's global team.

He said: "I return to Lilly with renewed energy and enthusiasm, along with a new perspective on health and wellness and the critical importance of new medicines in advancing patient care."

The chief executive has led Lilly since 2008 and has been with the company since 1979.