The W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University has named John Hammergren, McKesson Corp. chairman, as its Executive of the Year.

The award annually recognizes top executives who serve as exceptional models for future business leaders.

Under Hammergren’s leadership as CEO for the past 15 years, McKesson’s revenues have quadrupled to $179 billion while the healthcare firm has expanded its footprint into international markets and new industry sectors. Today, the 183-year-old company ranks No. 11 on the Fortune 500 and employs more than 80,000 people.

Hammergren has spent his entire career in healthcare, having landed his first job as a hospital supply sales representative as a new college graduate.

“John Hammergren has demonstrated outstanding and sustained leadership in a healthcare environment that is ever changing,” said Amy Hillman, W. P. Carey School of Business dean. “He led McKesson from crisis to becoming a global leader in healthcare services and information technology.”

Hammergren, who has been with McKesson for 20 years, was recently named one of Harvard Business Review’s 100 Top Performing CEO’s in the World.

“I am honored to receive this award from W. P. Carey School of Business,” Hammergren said. “I’ve been very fortunate to have a long and successful career in an industry that touches people’s lives on a daily basis.”

Hammergren becomes the 33rd annual Executive of the Year chosen by the Dean’s Council, a national group of prominent executives who advise the W. P. Carey School of Business. 

The award honors business leaders who have created and sustained superior organization performance, and whose presence exemplifies a model for future business leaders. 

Previous honorees include Howard Schultz, chairman and CEO of Starbucks Coffee Co.; Alan Mulally, president and CEO of Ford Motor Co, and Mike Ahearn, chairman of the board of First Solar, Inc.

Hammergren will be honored at a luncheon at the Camelback Inn on April 21.