Gilead Sciences names new human resources head

Gilead Sciences has announced the appointment of Katie Watson as its new executive vice-president of human resources (HR).

Ms Watson has been with the company since 2003, occupying roles of increasing responsibility within Gilead's HR organisation. She was appointed vice-president of employee development and rewards in 2012, becoming senior vice-president for HR in 2013.

During her time at Gilead, the size of the company's workforce has grown by approximately 1,000 people, with more than 8,000 employees now working for the firm worldwide.

Prior to joining Gilead, Ms Watson was a manager of compensation for Applera Corporation, led the HR consulting practice for TriNet and worked as an HR business partner for DE Shaw and Co.

Dr John Martin, chairman and chief executive officer of Gilead Sciences, said: "Her understanding of the complexities of Gilead's business has allowed her to contribute significantly to building an organisation that today reaches millions of patients around the world."

It was announced earlier this week that John Milligan will be succeeding Dr Martin as chief executive in March.