Jakobs to take reins at Philips

AMSTERDAM – Roy Jakobs is expected to take the helm at Philips, succeeding Frans van Houten as CEO. 

Van Houten is nearing the end of his third term as CEO. 

"It has been both a privilege and a pleasure to lead the transformation of Philips, over the past 12 years, into one of the largest health technology companies in the world, bringing innovative solutions to help our customers deliver on the Quadruple Aim of better health outcomes, higher healthcare productivity and much improved patient and staff experience,” said van Houten. “While I am proud of our many accomplishments, much remains to be done to enhance the resilience of Philips to manage through current setbacks and adverse market conditions.”  

Jakobs brings a strong international, operational and transformational track record, and has been successful in turning around businesses in customer-focused growth organizations. Since taking on responsibility for the voluntary recall notification/field safety notice for specific Respironics devices on behalf of Philips, substantial progress has been made under his leadership. 

"I am delighted to have the opportunity to lead Philips to improve people’s health and well-being through innovation,” said Jakobs. “I aim to build on the company’s strong foundation as a purpose-driven health technology leader with deep innovation and clinical expertise, to serve the needs of patients and consumers today and in the future.” 

An Extraordinary General Meeting of shareholders will be held on Sept. 30, 2022, to appoint Roy Jakobs as president and CEO, effective Oct. 15, 2022. van Houten will act as adviser to the company until April 30, 2023.