Larry Merlo

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Larry J. Merlo (born 1956) is an American businessman who served as the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of CVS Health, a American retail pharmacy and health care company. Under his leadership, CVS Health expanded its operations significantly, notably through the acquisition of Aetna in 2018, a deal valued at approximately $69 billion. This move was aimed at transforming the pharmacy giant into a more diversified healthcare company.

Early Life and Education

Larry J. Merlo was born in 1956. He grew up in a small town in western Pennsylvania. Merlo pursued his higher education at the University of Pittsburgh, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy in 1978. His educational background laid the foundation for his future career in the pharmacy and healthcare industry.

Career

Merlo began his career in the pharmacy sector shortly after graduating. He joined People's Drug, which was later acquired by CVS. His early roles involved pharmacy operations, where he gained significant experience in retail pharmacy management.

CVS Health

Merlo's career at CVS Health spanned several decades, during which he held various leadership positions. Before becoming CEO, he served as the President of CVS/pharmacy, the retail division of CVS Health, where he was responsible for all aspects of the business, including sales, operations, and marketing.

In 2011, Larry Merlo was appointed President and CEO of CVS Health. During his tenure, he focused on transforming CVS into a more integrated healthcare provider. One of his most notable achievements was the decision to discontinue the sale of tobacco products in all CVS stores in 2014, a move that was widely praised by public health advocates and considered a bold step for a retail pharmacy chain.

Under Merlo's leadership, CVS Health also made significant strides in digital innovation and patient care services, including the expansion of its MinuteClinic network and the introduction of CVS HealthHUB locations, which offer a broader range of health services.

The acquisition of Aetna in 2018 was a landmark event in CVS Health's history and represented a major shift in the company's strategy, focusing more on healthcare services beyond traditional retail pharmacy operations.

Retirement

Larry Merlo announced his retirement as CEO of CVS Health in 2020, and he was succeeded by Karen S. Lynch in 2021. His retirement marked the end of a significant era for CVS Health, during which the company saw substantial growth and transformation.

Legacy

Merlo's legacy at CVS Health is marked by his efforts to position the company as a leading healthcare provider. His leadership during the acquisition of Aetna and the decision to eliminate tobacco sales are particularly noteworthy. These actions not only impacted CVS Health's business model but also had broader implications for public health and the healthcare industry.

Personal Life

Details about Larry Merlo's personal life are relatively private. He is known to have a commitment to various philanthropic efforts, particularly those related to healthcare and education.