More Pfizer Management Changes?

It looks like the management shake-up at Pfizer may not yet be over.

Anyone who has followed this blog knows that after Pfizer CEO Jeff Kindler took over from Hank McKinnell, Vice Chairman Karen Katen decided to leave the company and Mr. Kindler also decided to remove Pat Kelly, who was head of U.S. Pharmaceuticals, from his position. In a company announcement Mr. Kindler wrote that "Pat is looking at other career opportunities within Pfizer where he can apply his extensive knowledge of our industry as well as his leadership experience." Problem is that there does not appear to be any position of similar importance as the one he was forced to leave . . . so this action speaks for itself.

And Mr. Kindler also wrote that "Marie-Caroline Sainpy continues in her dual role as head of marketing for the U.S. and Worldwide," reporting to Peter Brandt, the new U.S. head and to Ian Read, who assumed global responsibility for Worldwide Pharmaceutical Operations.

But with all the people gone whom Mari-Caroline used to report to, including Pat and Karen, it may not be surprising if she is talking to a few recruiters.

In fact, I have solid information (wouldn't dare make this statement otherwise) that SPENCER STUART INTERNATIONAL, one of the preeminent global search firms, spent some time last week researching Marie-Caroline Sainpy.

This could mean that Ms. Sainpy has approached Spencer Stuart or that they are pursuing her about a job outside Pfizer. In fact, recruiters must have a field day with Pfizer right now, since the uncertainty of a new management means employees don't know if they are safe.

You heard it here first.