Global pharmaceutical leader Boehringer Ingelheim has announced a significant leadership appointment that will shape the company's digital future. Harsha Deshmukh has been named to the Board of Managing Directors with responsibility for IT and Global Business Services, effective February 1, 2026.
Strategic Leadership Appointment
The Shareholders' Committee of Boehringer Ingelheim confirmed Deshmukh's appointment, marking a strategic move to strengthen the company's digital transformation capabilities. In his new role, Deshmukh will lead both the IT and Global Business Services functions, focusing on driving innovation and developing business services across the organization.
This appointment also involves structural changes within the company, as IT and Global Business Services will be established as a separate Board Division. Previously, these functions were part of the Group Functions Division, indicating the growing importance of digital infrastructure in the pharmaceutical industry.
Executive Endorsements and Vision
Hubertus von Baumbach, Chairman of the Boehringer Shareholders' Committee, expressed strong support for the appointment. "We warmly welcome Harsha Deshmukh," von Baumbach stated. "With his extensive experience in fostering innovation, he will help drive our journey of transformation – a transformation in the interest of patients. We know that in this process of continuous improvement we can rely on the proven skills, the contributions and the high commitment of each individual in our organization."
Shashank Deshpande, Chairman of the Board of Managing Directors, echoed this enthusiasm, noting: "I am excited to welcome Harsha to Boehringer Ingelheim. His appointment strengthens our capabilities in the important segments of IT and services, two areas that are critical elements to underpin our future growth."
Deshmukh's Professional Background
Harsha Deshmukh brings substantial experience to his new role, joining Boehringer Ingelheim from Infineon Technologies AG in Munich, Germany, where he most recently served as Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer.
His educational background includes multiple advanced degrees:
- Electronics from the University of Mumbai
- Human Resources from Babson College
- Global Management from INSEAD
Deshmukh's career progression demonstrates consistent growth in technology leadership:
- 2021 – present: Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer, Infineon Technologies AG, Munich, Germany
- 2009 – 2021: Senior Vice President Information Technology, Infineon Technologies AG, Munich, Germany
- 2001 – 2009: Director of Supply Chain Applications, Infineon Technologies, Munich, Germany
- 1999 – 2001: Senior Consultant Advanced Planning Systems, Siemens Information Management Systems, Mumbai, India
- 1989 – 1999: Manager Manufacturing Automation, Mukand Ltd., Mumbai, India
About Boehringer Ingelheim
Boehringer Ingelheim represents a major force in the global biopharmaceutical landscape, with activities spanning both human and animal health sectors. The company maintains its position as one of the industry's top investors in research and development, concentrating on creating innovative therapies that address areas of high unmet medical need.
Founded in 1885, Boehringer Ingelheim has maintained its independence while embedding sustainability throughout its value chain. The company employs approximately 54,500 people worldwide and serves over 130 markets, maintaining its commitment to building a healthier and more sustainable future.
This leadership appointment comes at a time when digital transformation is becoming increasingly critical in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly for companies operating at Boehringer Ingelheim's global scale. Deshmukh's experience in driving innovation and digital strategy positions him to make significant contributions to the company's ongoing success and patient-focused mission.
