Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. announced that Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer James C. Foster will retire at the company’s 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders in May, and that Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Birgit Girshick will become the next CEO. The board’s unanimous decision separates the chair and CEO roles, with Martin Mackay taking the chairmanship and Girshick joining the board as a director. Girshick will assume the CEO position effective May 5 2026.
Birgit Girshick has spent more than 35 years at Charles River, rising through the ranks to COO in 2021. Her deep operational experience spans the company’s global business units and positions her to lead the firm’s next growth phase. The internal promotion signals continuity and a strong succession plan that aligns with best‑practice corporate governance.
James C. Foster’s 50‑year career at Charles River culminated in a 30‑year tenure as CEO, during which the company grew from $307 million in 2000 to $4.0 billion in 2024. Under his leadership, CRL completed over 50 acquisitions, joined the S&P 500 in 2021, and contributed to more than 80 % of FDA‑approved drugs since 2017. Foster’s departure marks the end of a transformative era, but the company’s robust track record provides a solid foundation for the transition.
The announcement follows a comprehensive strategic review that outlined cost‑restructuring plans expected to deliver $225 million in annualized savings by 2026 and a renewed focus on higher‑margin scientific services. CRL will divest non‑core businesses, invest in core competencies such as bioanalysis and new‑approach methodologies, and maintain an active $1 billion stock‑repurchase program. These initiatives aim to strengthen profitability while preserving the company’s leadership in preclinical drug development.
Market reaction to the leadership change has been positive, driven by the company’s recent earnings beats, strong performance in core segments, and the perception of a smooth, internally led succession. Investors view the separation of chair and CEO roles and the appointment of a seasoned internal candidate as signals of stability and effective governance.
"As I reflect on my 50‑year journey at the Company, Charles River has been far more than a place to work – it has been a profound experience and one of the great privileges throughout my life," said Foster. "I am proud of what we have built and confident that the company will continue to thrive under Girshick’s leadership." Girshick added, "I am deeply honored to become Charles River’s next CEO. Having spent more than 35 years at the Company, this moment carries tremendous personal meaning for me."
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