David K. Lee is Chief Executive Officer of Servier Pharmaceuticals, the U.S. subsidiary of the Servier Group. Under his leadership, Servier Pharmaceuticals has grown into the group’s largest subsidiary, with oncology as its defining strategic focus. Lee has been instrumental in building the company’s U.S. oncology presence, establishing commercial infrastructure, expanding market access, and positioning Servier as a competitive player in targeted and rare cancer therapies.
During Lee’s tenure, Servier Pharmaceuticals strengthened its oncology footprint through strategic acquisitions, portfolio integration, and disciplined execution, supporting the company’s expansion in precision oncology and hematologic malignancies. His leadership has emphasized building sustainable U.S. capabilities that complement Servier’s European research heritage, contributing to the group’s transition toward a more globally balanced biopharmaceutical organization. In January 2025, Lee was appointed to the Servier Group Executive Committee as Executive Vice President, USA, reflecting his expanded role in shaping the company’s global strategy.
Prior to joining Servier, Lee held senior leadership roles at Baxter, GlaxoSmithKline, Novartis, and Shire, including serving as Global Head of Rare Diseases and Oncology at Shire. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Harvard University and an MBA from Harvard Business School. His career reflects a consistent focus on building oncology and specialty medicine organizations with durable clinical and commercial impact.
The 100 CEOs featured here reflect the diversity and complexity of modern oncology leadership. In 2025, some lead the world’s largest cancer institutions; others guide specialized societies or emerging innovators. What unites them is responsibility: for millions of patients, for the integrity of science, and for the future direction of cancer care globally.
This list is not a celebration of power, but a recognition of stewardship, accountability, and impact – and of the leaders whose choices continue to shape the fight against cancer. For the many deserving individuals not mentioned in this list, we will continue to acknowledge, honor and elevate your voices in our daily publications from across the world.
See the full list of The 100 Most Influential CEOs in Oncology in 2025, and stay tuned for other special category nominations.
