Zimmer appoints Actavis head to board of directors

Zimmer has announced the appointment of Paul Bisaro to its board of directors, a role that will see the veteran healthcare executive helping to guide the firm's strategic vision.

Mr Bisaro is the chairman, president and chief executive officer (CEO) of global healthcare company Actavis. He was appointed president and CEO in 2007 and took on the additional role of chairman following Actavis' recent takeover of Warner Chilcott.

During his tenure as CEO, the company – formerly known as Watson Pharmaceuticals – has seen its revenues grow from approximately $2 billion (1.22 billion pounds) to anticipated pro forma revenue of around $11 billion in 2013.

Mr Bisaro has championed six significant acquisitions, helping Actavis to attain a leadership position in women's health and become the third-largest specialty pharmaceutical business in the US.

Larry Glasscock, chairman of the board at Zimmer, said: "Paul Bisaro brings a wealth of experience leading highly respected global pharmaceutical companies and a strong track record of growth and international expansion."

This comes after Zimmer announced a new fourth quarter dividend and share repurchase programme earlier this week.