Pfizer appoints lead director

Pfizer has announced the appointment of Constance J Horner, currently a member of the board of directors of the firm, as lead director, effective as of February 23rd 2007. Ms Horner will replace Dr Stanley O Ikenberry in the role.

Dr Ikenberry will retire from the board of directors on March 22nd 2007, in line with the firm’s compulsory age of retirement.

Ms Horner has been a director of Pfizer since 1993 and has been guest scholar in governmental studies at the Brookings Institution from 1993 to 2005. Ms Horner was assistant to President Bush and director of presidential personnel from 1991 to 1993.

Prior to this appointment, Ms Horner had roles as deputy secretary of the US department of health and human services and director of the US office of personnel management.

Dr Ikenberry said: “Connie Horner has demonstrated outstanding leadership during her 14 years on our board and will bring her experience and insights to this important role.”

Last December, Pfizer appointed Jeffrey B Kindler as chairman of the board of directors. Mr Kindler replaced Hank McKinnel in the role, with Dr McKinnell stepping down from the board of directors in February 2007 when he leaves the company.