Lilly Provides Update on CEO Dr. John Lechleiter

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May 14, 2013, 09:00 ET

INDIANAPOLIS, May 14, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY) today announced that John C. Lechleiter, Ph.D., chairman, president, and chief executive officer, underwent scheduled surgery for a dilated aorta on Monday, May 13, 2013.

"Dr. Lechleiter's surgeons have advised us that surgery went as expected and the repair to the aorta is functioning as intended," said Kristine A. Courtney, M.D., senior director of Lilly's corporate health services. "Dr. Lechleiter is recovering and will be closely monitored by the medical staff over the next several days."

As announced previously, in accordance with the company's bylaws, Derica W. Rice, executive vice president, global services and chief financial officer, has assumed the additional role of acting chief executive officer during Lechleiter's recuperation period. Ellen R. Marram, currently the board's lead independent director, is serving as acting chairperson of the board of directors.

About Eli Lilly and Company
Lilly, a leading innovation-driven corporation, is developing a growing portfolio of pharmaceutical products by applying the latest research from its own worldwide laboratories and from collaborations with eminent scientific organizations. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Ind., Lilly provides answers - through medicines and information - for some of the world's most urgent medical needs. Additional information about Lilly is available at www.lilly.com. C-LLY

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