ABPI appoints new chief executive

The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) has announced the appointment of former GlaxoSmithKline staffer Mike Thompson as its new chief executive.

Mr Thompson will take up his new role on March 1st, leveraging his experience and expertise accrued over a career working across multiple sectors, including pharmaceuticals, food, drinks, toiletries and government agencies.

He spent more than 20 years working for GlaxoSmithKline, most recently serving as its senior vice-president of global commercial strategy and platforms, and previously spending seven years as its commercial strategy head for Europe.

Prior to joining GlaxoSmithKline, he worked for Unilever's food and toiletries divisions, joining as a commercial trainee and later becoming a UK marketing director.

ABPI president John Kearney said: "I am looking forward to working with Mike and am convinced that his deep knowledge of our industry, his passion for what we do and his strategic capabilities will be huge assets for the ABPI."

This follows the departure of previous chief executive Stephen Whitehead last October, with Alison Clough filling in during the interim period.