PEOPLE ON THE MOVE
Pfizer: Albert Bourla
The president of Pfizer’s innovative health business Albert Bourla has been promoted to chief operating officer at the US-headquartered firm, effective January 1, 2018.
The new role will allow Pfizer’s CEO Ian Read to concentrate on the firm’s long-term plans, said Read.
“The addition of a COO will enable me to spend more time focusing on the company’s long term strategic direction, ensuring continued R&D productivity and engaging with government policy and industry leaders on key issues facing the future of the healthcare industry,” Read said in a statement.
Prior to Bourla’s role in Pfizer’s innovative health business, he was group president for Pfizer’s Vaccines, Oncology and Consumer Health businesses.
“He was instrumental [in this role] in building a strong a competitive position in oncology and expanded the company’s leadership in vaccines,” said Read.
Bourla has also served as general manager of Pfizer’s Established Products Business Unit and area president for Pfizer’s Animal Health business across Europe, Africa, and Asia Pacific.
He holds a PhD in the biotechnology of reproduction from the Veterinary School of Aristotle University in Thessaloniki, Greece