Starboard has approached two former Pfizer executives, Ian Read and Frank D’Amelio, to assist in its efforts, and they have expressed interest in helping, The Wall Street Journal reported Sunday, citing people familiar with the matter.

An activist invester has taken interest in pharma giant Pfizer, which despite becoming a household name during the pandemic has struggled to move its stock.

Starboard Value has taken a stake in Pfizer, people familiar with the matter said.The drug giant's stock price has dropped significantly since its COVID-19 vaccine rollout.Starboard's stake in Pfizer is reportedly worth about $1 billion.