Leo Pharma appoints new European head

Leo Pharma has announced the appointment of Svend Andersen as its executive vice-president and European head, effective as of January 1st 2016.

Mr Andersen currently serves as president for Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Hospira, where he also occupies the roles of corporate vice-president and corporate officer. His former employers include firms such as Actavis and Ferrosan.

In his new role at Leo Pharma, he will join the firm's executive leadership team and report directly to the chief executive officer.

He will be tasked with driving continued growth for the company across Europe and building on its position in the skin disease therapy market.

Gitte Aabo, president and chief executive officer of Leo Pharma, said: "Svend brings with him a proven track record in driving business in healthcare internationally and has extensive executive management experience."

This comes after the firm announced the acquisition of the global dermatology business of Astellas last month, with the deal expected to close in the first quarter of next year.