Orion appoints new SVP for global sales

Orion has announced that Satu Ahomaki is to replace Pekka Kaivola as the company’s senior vice-president (SVP) responsible for global sales.

Ms Ahomaki, who is currently SVP for Orion’s animal health division, will step into her new role on October 1st 2010 when Mr Kaivola retires from the company.

When he steps down, Mr Kaivola will also vacate his position as a member of the executive management board and will become a senior adviser to Orion until his retirement.

Timo Lappalainen, president and chief executive officer of Orion, thanked Mr Kaivola for his contributions during his 21-year stint at the company, while expressing confidence in his replacement Ms Ahomaki.

He said: “Her experience from the different fields of pharmaceutical industry is important for us in the accelerating changes of the business.”

Last month, Orion published its financial report for the first quarter of the year, during which it delivered a year-on-year sales growth which was above its expectations.