Shire appoints new human genetic therapies executive

Shire has strengthened the leadership of its human genetic therapies business with the appointment of Grainne Higgins as global vice-president of human resources.

Ms Higgins has accrued significant industry experience during a career spanning more than 20 years, having previously occupied roles at Merck Sharpe and Dohme and Schering-Plough.

In her new role at Shire, she takes responsibility for conducting and driving people initiatives which support the human genetic therapies division’s global business strategy.

She reports directly to Ann Judge, senior vice-president for global human resources, who expressed confidence in Ms Higgins’ ability to expand the firm’s organisational capabilities.

“Grainne’s breadth of experience will undoubtedly play an integral role in our ability to cultivate the human capital that enables our growth as an organisation,” said Ms Judge.

Earlier this year, Shire won the company of the year title at the European Mediscience Awards 2010, recognising the strength of its corporate strategies.