AstraZeneca names new operations and IT head

AstraZeneca has announced the appointment of Pam Cheng as its new executive vice-president for operations and IT, succeeding David Smith.

Ms Cheng will take responsibility for the company's manufacturing operations and supply chain, procurement and IT operations globally. In this role, she will oversee continued progress in driving efficiency and maintaining high standards in these areas.

She joins the company from Merck Sharp and Dohme, where she played a lead role in restructuring and upgrading the company's manufacturing technology and engineering capabilities.

Her predecessor Mr Smith is retiring from AstraZeneca after nearly ten years with the organisation.

Pascal Soriot, chief executive officer at AstraZeneca, said: "Pam will be able to bring to bear her wealth of experience in manufacturing and supply chain management, as well as her experience in emerging markets, particularly China, a key priority for our company."

Last month, the company created a new manufacturing facility in Sodertalje, Sweden, in order to expand its production of biological medicines.