Cook Medical names new aortic interventions division head

Cook Medical has announced the appointment of Nicky James as vice-president and global leader of its aortic intervention clinical division, succeeding Phil Nowell.

Ms James – the current vice-president of global sales for Cook's peripheral intervention business – will fully assume her new role in January 2014 following a transitional period, whereupon she will be tasked with driving further growth within the division.

Meanwhile, Mr Nowell – who has occupied the post for the last five years – will take on a new role with the company building resources and systems to further enable rapid growth in the Asia-Pacific region, a move that will allow him to return to his native Australia.

Pete Yonkman, executive vice president of Cook Medical, said: "Nicky's depth of experience, passion for working with physicians and patients and unique ability to lead people will make this a fun transition to be involved in."

This comes after the firm announced earlier this month that it has completed enrolment for a clinical trial of a new surgical treatment for peripheral arterial disease.