Willie A. Deese was Executive Vice President and President of Merck Manufacturing Division with responsibility for Merck’s worldwide manufacturing operations. He oversaw a network of more than 55 manufacturing and distribution sites with approximately 16,500 employees in 22 countries around the world, with an operating budget of $8 billion.
Deese was responsible for Merck’s global procurement organization. Deese also served as a member of Merck’s Executive Committee.
Deese joined Merck as Senior Vice President, Global Procurement, in January 2004, after having established a track record of outstanding success as an executive and manager for several pharmaceutical, health care and high technology companies.
Deese was the Chairman of the North Carolina A&T State University Board of Trustees.
Deese holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from North Carolina A&T State University and an MBA from Western New England College.
