David A. Ricks
David A. Ricks (Dave Ricks) is the chair and CEO ofEli Lilly and Company, a global pharmaceutical company. With over 25 years of experience at Lilly, Dave has held various roles in marketing, sales, drug development, and international operations.He assumed the position of CEO in January 2017andbecame the chair of the company's board of directors in June 2017.
From 2012 to 2016, Dave served as the president of Lilly Bio-Medicines, leading one of the company's major divisions. Prior to that, he was the president of Lilly USA, the company's largest affiliate, from 2009 to 2012. He also held significant international leadership positions for nearly eight years.Dave was the president and general manager of Lilly China, a rapidly growing emerging market, from 2008 to 2009. He also served as the general manager of Lilly Canada from 2005 to 2008, following roles as director of pharmaceutical marketing and national sales director in the same country. Dave joined Lilly in 1996 as a business development associate and held several management positions in U.S. marketing and sales before transitioning to Lilly Canada.
Dave holds a Bachelor of Science degreefrom Purdue University, earned in 1990, and a Master of Business Administration degree from Indiana University, earned in 1996.
In addition to his role at Eli Lilly, Dave serves on the board of directors for Adobe and Business Roundtable. He is also a member of the board and former chair of the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America.Dave actively participates in industry organizations, including the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations, where he serves on the CEO Steering Committee. He is also involved in initiatives related to innovation and inclusive growth, such as The Business Council and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office's Council for Inclusive Innovation.
Dave is deeply engaged in the development and well-being of Central Indiana. He serves on the executive committee and board of Central Indiana Corporate Partnership, showcasing his commitment to the local community.
