Australian biotechnology company CSL has appointed Deborah Waterhouse as its next chief executive officer and managing director, making her the first woman to lead the company since its incorporation more than three decades ago.
Waterhouse will take up the role on 1 February 2027, succeeding interim chief executive Gordon Naylor, who will remain in the position until the transition. She will continue to be based in the UK while spending significant time in Australia, the United States and other key markets where CSL operates.
Waterhouse currently serves as chief executive of ViiV Healthcare, a specialist HIV medicines company majority-owned by GSK, where she has held the position since 2017. She also serves as president of GSK Global Health.
During her career at GSK, Waterhouse has led the company’s US vaccines business and US primary care business, as well as holding several senior executive positions. She previously served as general manager for Australia and New Zealand from 2008 to 2012.
CSL said her appointment followed a global search by its board. Chairman Brian McNamee highlighted her experience in commercial leadership, pharmaceutical development and managing complex international businesses.
Waterhouse said she was pleased to take on the role, noting the company’s contribution to healthcare through its plasma collection operations, research, medicine development and manufacturing. She said her focus would be on maintaining business momentum and supporting sustainable growth for patients and shareholders.
The appointment follows a challenging period for CSL, which has faced earnings downgrades, pressure on its share price and plans to reduce its workforce by around 3,000 positions. The company also reported a substantial net loss for the 2026 financial year, largely reflecting impairment charges.
Waterhouse will lead CSL as it works to strengthen its commercial performance, renew its product development pipeline and improve operational efficiency across its global business.
