Change and Transformation in the Private Sector
GSK’s consumer health (CH) joint venture with Pfizer was established in 2018 with the intention of spinning off the new CH business within three years. The demerger – the UK’s largest in a decade – would create two leading global companies, enabling each to concentrate on its respective strengths and strategic priorities: biopharmaceuticals for GSK and consumer healthcare for the new business. An ambitious target was set to complete the separation in a tight timeframe, ahead of the new business launch.
The GSK Consumer Heath Separation programme kicked off in 2020. Achieving a separation of this scale required GSK and its partner advisers to disentangle a huge and complex network of assets, technological systems, operations and shared services, all within an ambitious timeframe. It was critical that the demerger cause minimal disruption to ongoing business activities, while maintaining flexibility on the timing to maximise opportunities from market conditions. Facilitating a smooth transition for employees and other stakeholders was equally key.
Gate One worked closely with GSK functions over more than two years to scope, mobilise and deliver this complex, high-profile transformation. We provided strategic advisory and complex programme delivery expertise across several key workstreams – ranging from data disposition and new brand launch, to policy separation and change management, among others. Throughout the project, we actively sought opportunities to establish simpler governance structures, new behaviours, and a distinct identity to foster product innovation and increased speed to market.
We played a key role in successfully guiding GSK through the separation to seamlessly deliver two world leading companies on time and with minimal disruption to either business. GSK has subsequently exceeded market expectations. Haleon – listed on the London Stock Exchange at a £30.5bn valuation in July 2022 – is now a globally recognised brand delivering strong organic growth.
Deeply embedded within the organisation, our teams distinguished themselves through their expert knowledge, collaborative approach, and ability to problem-solve complex issues, as the go-to resource to tackle challenging situations. Our work has enabled Haleon to embark on a new chapter of growth and innovation, setting the stage for enduring success in the consumer health industry, by ‘delivering better everyday health with humanity’.
Since the separation, we have continued to work with the Haleon Data Office to develop its enterprise data capability and embed enterprise-wide data governance and stewardship. This will better enable Haleon to unlock the value of its data, which is key to delivering its business purpose.
We are also helping to steer Haleon’s use of AI by refining the organisation’s AI strategic priorities and roadmap, and leading a change management programme to ensure responsible use of AI across regions and business units.
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