Frazier will succeed Richard Clark, who has served as Merck’s CEO since 2005 and will continue as chairman of the board.
Merck said that Frazier has served as president of Merck since May 2010 and has lead Merck’s three major divisions: Global Human Health, Merck’s pharmaceutical and vaccine business; Merck Manufacturing Division, Merck’s manufacturing and supply division; and Merck Research Laboratories, Merck’s research organisation.
Frazier joined Merck in 1992 as vice president, general counsel and secretary of the Astra Merck Group.
Merck CEO and chairman Richard Clark said that Ken has made considerable contributions to their business every step of the way during his 18 years with Merck.
"His intellect, drive and deep understanding of our industry will greatly benefit Merck and our mission of improving and saving lives through scientific innovation," Clark said.
Frazier said that as CEO, his responsibility will be to enable Merck colleagues to focus their considerable talent, creativity and commitment on meeting the changing needs of their global customers.