Richard Wood (executive)
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Richard "DicK" Wood was an American business executive.[1]
Early life and education[edit]
Born in Brazil, Indiana, Wood studied at Shortridge High School and DePauw University, before earning an engineering degree from Purdue University.[2][3] Later, he also earned an MBA from the Wharton School.[2][3]
Wood was married to Billie Lou Wood who died in 2013.[2]
Career[edit]
Wood began his career at Eli Lilly and Company in 1950.[3] His tenure included positions in Argentina and Mexico before he became Vice President of Industrial Relations.[3]
In 1972, Wood became the president and CEO of Eli Lilly and Co.[2] Under his leadership, the company evolved from a producer of antibiotics and animal-derived insulin into the seventh largest pharmaceutical manufacturer in the U.S. by 1991.[3][2]
During his presidency at Eli Lilly, he led the development of products such as Prozac and biosynthetic insulin.[3][4] He continued his leadership role post-retirement, chairing the IMA board and contributing to its expansion.[3]
Retiring in 1991, Wood became involved in philanthropic endeavors, supporting institutions such as the Indianapolis Museum of Art, the Children's Museum, and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.[3] He also led a campaign for the Full Circle Celebration marking the rejuvenation of Downtown.[3]
References[edit]
- ^ Hagerty, James R. (April 30, 2020). "Eli Lilly CEO Richard Wood Oversaw Prozac Launch" – via www.wsj.com.
- ^ a b c d e King, Mason (April 20, 2020). "Richard Wood, CEO of Lilly during transformational era, dies at 93".
- ^ a b c d e f g h i "Former Eli Lilly head Richard Wood dies; led company for nearly two decades". The Indianapolis Star.
- ^ "COMPANY NEWS; Chief Retires At Eli Lilly". Associated Press. November 6, 1991 – via NYTimes.com.