GlaxoSmithKline appoints SVP for medicine development

GlaxoSmithKline has selected Patrick Vallance to become its new senior vice-president of medicines discovery and development, commencing July 1st 2010.

Mr Vallance has been employed at GlaxoSmithKline since 2006 and will also become a member of the company’s corporate executive team as part of his new role.

Prior to joining the pharmaceuticals firm, he was the registrar of the Academy of Medical Sciences, while he has also led University College London’s division of medicine during his time in clinical academia.

Andrew Witty, chief executive officer of GlaxoSmithKline, said Mr Vallance’s appointment will help to improve the productivity of its research and product development.

He added: “Patrick has a deep level of scientific and medical acumen which, coupled with his proven management skills, mean he is well placed to bring further research and development perspective to GSK’s leadership team.”

Earlier this month, the company was granted UK approval for its benign prostatic hyperplasia treatment Combodart, following on from positive trial findings.