Merck’s Head of Human Resources Mirian M. Graddick-Weir to Retire

Merck, known as MSD outside the United States of America and Canada, today announced the retirement effective November 30, 2018 of its chief human resources officer Mirian M. Graddick-Weir, following 12 years of service with the company. She will be succeeded by Steven C. Mizell, who will join the company in October 2018.

Graddick-Weir joined Merck in 2006. During her tenure, she has been instrumental in leading global and transformational change across the business and the human resources function as well as strengthening the diverse pipeline of talent. She will remain with the company until November and will work closely with Mizell to ensure a successful transition. “Mirian has made significant, enduring contributions as a member of Merck’s senior leadership team,” said Kenneth C. Frazier, Merck chairman and chief executive officer. “Her work has positioned us to better attract and develop the workforce of the future.”

Mizell will join Merck from Monsanto, where he served as executive vice president and chief human resources officer since 2004. He will be responsible for the company’s global human resources function and will serve as a member of Merck’s Executive Committee. “We are pleased to welcome Steve as our new chief human resources officer,” said Frazier. “His experience in leading human resources organizations, counseling leaders and board of directors and maximizing human capital around the world will make him a valuable contributor to our team.”

Throughout his career, Mizell has held positions of increasing responsibility across a range of disciplines within the human resources field. Prior to his role at Monsanto, Mizell was senior vice president and chief corporate resources officer for Advance PCS, a large prescription benefit plan administrator. He also was senior vice president and chief human resources and real estate officer for the technology company Zilog, Inc. Mizell is a Board Member of Oshkosh Corporation, a manufacturer of specialty vehicles and access equipment. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Management from the Georgia Institute of Technology and a Master of Science in Management and Public Policy Analysis from Carnegie Mellon University.

“Given Merck’s legacy, values and impact on the world, I couldn’t be more honored to join the company,” said Mizell. “I look forward to contributing to the Executive Committee and the organization at large.”

“I am proud of the Merck Human Resources team and its contributions to the company during my 12 years leading this world-class HR organization,” said Graddick-Weir. “I will leave Merck feeling satisfied that I have contributed to its long-term mission and improving its most important resource, which is people.” – Medical Buyer Bureau