MSD appoints Brecht Vanneste as Managing Director of India

Brecht Vanneste brings more than two decades of experience within MSD, having built a career across multiple geographies and therapeutic areas. Most recently, he served as the Oncology Business Unit Leader of MSD in China, guiding the introduction of new products and financial patient programs.

MSD, known as Merck & Co., has announced the appointment of Brecht Vanneste as Managing Director of India, effective March 1, 2026. A seasoned biopharmaceutical executive with more than 27 years at MSD, he will succeed Rehan A Khan and will be based in Mumbai.

He will operate from Mumbai and oversee the company’s India strategy and operations.

Headquartered in Rahway, N.J., USA, MSD is a global research-driven biopharmaceutical company with a strong presence in vaccines, oncology, infectious diseases, and cardiometabolic therapies.

India remains an important market within its global footprint, particularly as the country advances digital health adoption, expands insurance coverage, and strengthens regulatory frameworks to support innovation.

Leadership Journey

Brecht Vanneste brings more than two decades of experience within MSD, having built a career across multiple geographies and therapeutic areas. Most recently, he served as the Oncology Business Unit Leader of MSD in China, where he guided the introduction of new products and expanded indications across private markets and financial patient programs.

His tenure there focused on improving access pathways and strengthening oncology capabilities in a highly competitive landscape.

Earlier in his career, Vanneste held leadership roles in Europe. As Managing Director of MSD in Belgium and Luxembourg, he enhanced the company’s oncology portfolio and organizational capabilities.

His professional journey has also included responsibilities in sales, marketing, and market access, such as External Affairs Lead in Belgium, Franchise Director for Alzheimer’s Disease across Europe and Canada, and Regional Marketing Lead for the cardiovascular portfolio based in Switzerland.

His appointment as Managing Director of India comes at a time when the Indian pharmaceutical and healthcare ecosystem is increasingly integrating digital tools, real-world evidence, and patient support programs into care delivery.

With his background spanning commercial strategy, portfolio expansion, and cross-market leadership, Vanneste is expected to steer MSD’s India operations with a focus on innovation, access, and sustainable growth.

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