Bristol-Myers Squibb appoints new chief scientific officer

Bristol-Myers Squibb has announced that Dr Francis Cuss has been selected as its next chief scientific officer and executive vice-president.

Dr Cuss will assume the role on July 1st 2013 following the retirement of Dr Elliott Sigal, who is stepping down after serving in the position since 2004 and will work alongside his successor for a brief period to ensure a smooth transition.

The new chief scientific officer has a strong medical background, joining Bristol-Myers Squibb in 2003 after previously working with companies such as Glaxo and Schering-Plough.

During his time with the firm, he has helped to deliver greater efficiencies within its research operations and built a high-performing team, while also accelerating numerous innovative drug development projects.

Lamberto Andreotti, chief executive officer at Bristol-Myers Squibb, said: "Elliott has been a key leader in the development and execution of our company's strategy to become a BioPharma leader."

This comes after the drugmaker appointed Ann Powell Judge as its new senior vice-president for human resources last month.