Novo Nordisk has appointed Venkat Kalyan as General Manager of Novo Nordisk Gulf, the company announced on 21 July 2026. The appointment covers the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and Yemen.
Venkat Kalyan will lead Novo Nordisk’s operations across the Gulf region. He will focus on strengthening healthcare partnerships, advancing innovation and improving outcomes for people living with chronic diseases.
Venkat Kalyan brings nearly three decades of healthcare experience
Venkat Kalyan has nearly 30 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry. He has spent 18 of those years with Novo Nordisk.
Before this appointment, he served as General Manager of the Gulf Emerging Markets Cluster. His leadership experience also spans India, Switzerland, Denmark, Middle Africa, South Africa and several Gulf markets.
Novo Nordisk expands leadership across Gulf markets
According to Novo Nordisk, Venkat Kalyan will oversee operations across six countries. His remit includes the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and Yemen.
The company said he will work to strengthen partnerships across the healthcare sector. He will also support innovation while helping improve care for patients with chronic diseases.
Novo Nordisk said the appointment reflects its confidence in the Gulf’s evolving healthcare ecosystem. The company also highlighted the UAE’s growing role as a centre for medical research, innovation and partnership driven growth.
Executive outlines priorities for the region
Commenting on the appointment, Venkat Kalyan said the Gulf markets offer strong opportunities for healthcare development.
“The Gulf markets hold real potential and are exceptionally well positioned to lead the next phase of healthcare transformation. I look forward to building on Novo Nordisk’s strong foundation in the region and working closely with all our healthcare stakeholders to improve outcomes for patients.”
Gulf remains part of Novo Nordisk’s growth strategy
Novo Nordisk said the Gulf markets form an important part of its global growth strategy. The company added that it will continue expanding its regional impact while supporting accessible and sustainable patient care systems.
Founded in 1923 and headquartered in Denmark, Novo Nordisk focuses on chronic diseases, including diabetes. The company employs about 67,900 people across 80 countries and markets its products in around 170 countries.
