GE Healthcare has announced that it has chosen Chicago as its global headquarters, effective early 2016. This move will enable the executive leadership team to be closer to operations in Chicago and Milwaukee, while remaining near an international transportation hub. Headquarters were previously in Amersham, UK, which remains a major location for GE Healthcare with its global Life Sciences head office and base for UK operations.
“We are excited to strengthen GE’s roots in Chicago, where we will continue our focus on being the leading provider of outcome-based solutions for the health care industry,” John Flannery, President and CEO of GE Healthcare, said. “Chicago has a rich industrial heritage, terrific international transportation links and is close to some of the world’s leading health care and academic institutions. It is also ideally located for many of GE Healthcare’s operations.”
Rahm Emanuel, mayor of the City of Chicago, is excited about the addition of GE Healthcare to his growing city.
“GE Healthcare’s decision to relocate its global headquarters here is another example of Chicago’s growing strength in health care and innovation, and another vote of confidence in Chicago’s economic future,” Emanuel said. “In relocating, GE Healthcare sees several fundamental strengths in Chicago – from our talent to our transportation – that will help them build a great future and remain on the industry’s cutting edge.”
Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner is excited about the move.
“The relocation of GE Healthcare’s global headquarters to Chicago is a tremendous win for the state of Illinois,” Rauner said. “GE Healthcare will help grow the economy in Illinois by investing in our communities and building Chicago’s reputation as a global business hub. GE Healthcare joins a preeminent life sciences industry in Illinois and I am happy to welcome them to their new home.”
GE Healthcare spokesman Benjamin Fox confirmed that Wisconsin will remain a center for the company’s global manufacturing and leadership, as well as the global headquarters for its CT, MR, and X-ray businesses.