Albert Bourla: The Veterinarian Steering Pfizer's Future
Albert Bourla, DVM, PhD, has been at the helm of Pfizer since January 2019, guiding the pharmaceutical giant through significant milestones, including the rapid development of the COVID-19 vaccine. His unique background as a veterinarian brings a distinct perspective to the company's leadership.
Veterinary Roots and Rise to CEO
Born in Thessaloniki, Greece, Bourla earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and a Ph.D. in the biotechnology of reproduction from Aristotle University. He began his Pfizer career in 1993 in the Animal Health Division, progressively taking on more significant roles across various divisions and geographies before ascending to CEO.
Compensation Overview
In 2024, Bourla's total compensation was reported at $24.6 million, reflecting a 14% increase from the previous year. This package included a base salary of $1.8 million, $4.8 million in stock awards, nearly $10 million in option awards, and over $7 million in non-equity incentive plan compensation.
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Tariff Uncertainty Deters Pfizer's U.S. Investment Plans
Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla has expressed concerns that ongoing tariff uncertainties are impeding the company's potential investments in U.S. manufacturing and research and development (R&D). During a recent earnings call, Bourla emphasized that the lack of clear trade policies, particularly regarding tariffs, is causing the company to adopt a cautious approach to domestic investments. He stated that with more predictable policies, Pfizer could undertake significant investments in the U.S. .
The company currently operates 13 manufacturing sites in the U.S. and is considering shifting some production from abroad to these facilities if necessary. However, the existing tariffs are expected to cost Pfizer approximately $150 million in 2025, prompting the company to manage its finances prudently amid the uncertain environment according to CNBC.
Pfizer's 2025 Stock Outlook
As of April 30, 2025, Pfizer's stock (NYSE: PFE) is trading at $23.79. The company has projected 2025 revenues between $61 billion and $64 billion, with adjusted earnings per share ranging from $2.80 to $3.00 from reports from Yahoo Finance. While this forecast is slightly below some analyst expectations, it indicates a focus on stabilizing and growing the business post-pandemic.
