Novartis names new head of oncology

Novartis has announced the appointment of Elizabeth Barrett as the new chief executive officer (CEO) of its Novartis Oncology business, effective as of February 1st 2018.

Ms Barrett currently serves as global president of Pfizer's oncology business, and has held numerous leadership positions in the pharmaceutical and consumer sectors. She has been with Pfizer since 2009, leading its oncology business through a significant period of growth.

In addition to her new oncology leadership role, Ms Barrett will become a member of the Novartis executive committee. She succeeds Bruno Strigini, who has decided to retire from Novartis for personal reasons.

Vasant Narasimhan, designated CEO of Novartis, said: "Her long-time commercial pharma industry experience, marketing skills and perspectives make Liz a great fit to further develop our oncology business."

Additionally, Dr Robert Kowalski, the firm's head of global regulatory affairs, will become interim leader of Novartis' drug development organisation. He has been head of global regulatory affairs for the company since February 2016.

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