ABPI appoints new head

pharmafile | April 5, 2011 | News story | Manufacturing and Production, Research and Development, Sales and Marketing ABPI, appointment 

The ABPI has appointed former Prudential communications director Stephen Whitehead as its new head.

He joins the UK pharma industry body in June as chief executive and replaces Richard Barker, who steps down after six years as director general on 25 May.

Stephen Whitehead said: “In today’s changing environment and demanding economic circumstances it will be essential to work collaboratively and flexibly to realise the value of medicines in contributing to patients’ well-being and to promote the vital importance of this industry in the UK, a traditional home of discovery, innovation and research and development.”

Stephen was most recently group communications director at Prudential, a role he held for three years, and prior to this he served at Barclays and Allied Domecq in senior leadership roles.

During his 25-year career Stephen has also senior positions at Eli Lilly and Glaxo in the UK and the ABPI said he has a “strong personal passion and commitment to the pharmaceutical industry”.

ABPI president Simon Jose said: ‘The Board of Management is delighted by this appointment. We are in a time of dynamic change for the health service, the economy, our industry and the ABPI itself.

“As chief executive, Stephen brings skills and experiences that will enable us to meet the challenges ahead with energy and creativity. His expertise in effective stakeholder relations acquired over a 25-year career in policy, public affairs and communications will provide effective leadership to ensure we work in partnerships that benefit patients, the NHS and the pharmaceutical industry.”

Dominic Tyer

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