Biogen Idec appointment to integrate commercial units

Biogen Idec has announced the senior appointment of a new chief operating officer as part of its efforts to better integrate its commercial units.

Hans Peter Hasler, who has served the firm as executive vice-president of global neurology and head of international will take up this new role and will oversee all of the company’s business development function and commercial operations.

The company reports that since Mr Hasler’s appointment as head of international business at Biogen Idec it has seen its sales outside the US grow at an annual compound rate of 23 per cent.

It reports the stated strategic goal of continuing the geographical diversification of its revenue base, with the aim of having over 40 per cent of its revenue from international sources by the end of 2010.

C Mullen, chief executive officer of Biogen Idec, said: “In view of the continued expansion of our commercial businesses, and the advances of our extensive pipeline, it is important to further integrate Biogen Idec’s commercial units.

“Bringing together these businesses to enhance our commercial and new product opportunities on a global basis is a logical step in the continued implementation of our growth strategy.”

He added that Mr Hasleer is the ideal person to fill this new role given his success in his previous role.

In April 2008, Biogen Idec announced its results for the first quarter of the 2008 fiscal year, reporting a 32 per cent increase in revenues, up to $942 million (475 million pounds).