Novo Nordisk A/S said it has imposed a worldwide hiring freeze on roles deemed non-business critical, tightening spending as it faces mounting pressure on its blockbuster obesity drug Wegovy. A company spokesperson confirmed the freeze on 20 August, adding that essential positions remain exempt. The decision is the first major step by new Chief Executive Officer Mike Doustdar, who took charge on 7 August and has pledged to review costs company-wide. Novo Nordisk issued a profit warning in July that wiped about $70 billion from its market value, and Doustdar has signalled that layoffs are also under consideration. Novo’s drive for savings comes as copycat versions of Wegovy emerge and competition intensifies with Eli Lilly’s rival therapies. The Danish drugmaker, once Europe’s most valuable listed company, is seeking to defend market share while restoring investor confidence.